Interested in Cantonese opera? Join us in an exploration of this artform from the Backstage to the Stage. Get an introduction to how a Cantonese opera show is prepared. Cantonese opera is a form of Chinese opera that can trace its roots back to the 12th century. Combining music, singing, martial arts, acrobatics and acting, Cantonese opera tells stories from Chinese history and myth, reflecting virtues like love, loyalty and patriotism.

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This online course introduces Cantonese opera, with highlights of how a show is prepared from backstage to the stage.

You will look at how performers prepare individually and as a team through rehearsals; explore the makeup, props and costumes for shows; and discover the roles people play both on and offstage.

What topics will you cover?

- Overview basic skills of Cantonese opera

- Four skills and five movements

- Introduction to Gongche notation

- Types of rehearsals

- Music, gongs and drums

- Production, makeup and costumes

- Traditions of Cantonese opera

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

- Describe the workflow of how a Cantonese Opera show is prepared, including: preparation, rehearsals and backstage support

- Distinguish the six pillars' characteristics, including: makeup, costumes, acting, singing and performance

- Briefly the bamboo-shed theatre culture

- Identify key areas of Cantonese Opera culture and tradition

Enroll in course

MOOC List is learner-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Course Auditing

FutureLearn

The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

Alis Lin