On October 17, in Zhengzhou, the media conference for the nationwide tour of Henan opera classics titled “The National Tide and the Rhythm of Henan” was held. Led by renowned Henan opera artist Li Shujian, the tour is set to kick off on October 20, featuring classic performances such as “Cheng Ying Saves the Orphan” and “The Pavilion of Clear Breeze,” traveling to over ten cities across the country.

This year, under Li Shujian’s leadership, significant initiatives have been implemented in the “Yu Garden, Jing Garden, Home Garden” three-step strategy. Immersive performances in small theaters have already commenced in Shanghai, Zhengzhou, and Beijing.

During the press conference, Li Shujian, who is also the Vice President of the China Theatre Association and Chairman of the Henan Provincial Theatre Association, shared milestones from the past year. The series “Yu Garden · Henan Opera · Meeting Friends” debuted in Shanghai in January, marking a new chapter for Henan opera’s residency in the city. Following that, an immersive performance series launched at the Henan Art Center in February, and in May, performances began at the Beijing Henan Building.

These small theater performances emphasize Henan opera while incorporating the new art form “Penkong.” They feature various performance genres, allowing for a wide range of programs and inviting participation from diverse age groups and styles. The stage design has innovatively transformed traditional formats into a catwalk, with performers engaging with the audience, creating an immersive experience that resonates strongly with younger audiences.

So far, over 60 performances have been completed, showcasing the unique charm of small theater immersive productions. Notably, during this year’s National Day holiday, Li Shujian and fellow artists performed “Cheng Ying Saves the Orphan” aboard China’s first domestically produced cruise ship, the Aida Modu, garnering tremendous interest from attendees.

In response to widespread invitations, Li Shujian will commence the national tour starting October 20, with the first stops in Wuhan, Chongqing, and Xi’an, followed by cities such as Yan’an, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Urumqi, Yinchuan, and Hohhot, bringing classic Henan opera works to local audiences.

Li Shujian expressed that the purpose of this nationwide tour is to deepen the understanding of Henan opera among audiences and promote the culture of the Central Plains. This initiative will help elevate the brand “Walking in Henan, Understanding China,” protect and utilize local cultural heritage, and foster a deeper integration of culture and tourism, while promoting the creative transformation and innovative development of traditional arts.

Jiang Yuhong, Vice Chairman of the Henan Provincial Federation of Literary and Art Circles, highlighted that this national tour will facilitate profound exchanges between Henan opera and audiences nationwide. By capturing the interest of younger generations, the tour aims to develop more refined models for small theater immersive performances and contribute valuable experiences for the innovative transformation of folk arts.

Zhang Lixin, Chairman of the Henan Cultural Tourism Investment Group, described the tour as a proactive attempt to elevate Henan opera on a national stage and to continue promoting the “Walking in Henan, Understanding China” brand. The initiative will integrate modern cultural consumption trends with leisure lifestyles, promising to deliver spectacular performances that showcase the artistic charm of Henan opera to a broader audience.