This pioneering work is rich in historical materials and grounded in the idea of returning Chinese musical theater (Xiqu) to Wang Guowei's concept of "telling stories through song and dance." It offers a unique perspective that clearly outlines the development of Chinese musical theater, highlighting the aesthetic features of traditional operas that rely on virtual and stylized narratives, alongside the tre ...Full description
This pioneering work is rich in historical materials and grounded in the idea of returning Chinese musical theater (Xiqu) to Wang Guowei's concept of "telling stories through song and dance." It offers a unique perspective that clearly outlines the development of Chinese musical theater, highlighting the aesthetic features of traditional operas that rely on virtual and stylized narratives, alongside the trend of smaller musical pieces that use vernacular and realistic storytelling. This duality enriches the creation and study of Chinese opera and musical theater, opening up broader horizons. This academic approach not only integrates the previously separate studies of traditional opera, musical theater, and song and dance dramas into a completely new research perspective but also unveils the mysteries of the origins of Chinese musical theater. It reflects an ecological thought that emphasizes a balanced coexistence, mutual enhancement, and interaction between these two genres of musical drama.