Chinese opera is one of the oldest art forms in the world. Different parts of China have their own local opera and there are more than 300 different kinds.
Actors in Sichuan opera wear specially painted masks(面具)on their faces in many different colours. They will suddenly change completely, and all the time, the actor is dancing beautifully with many difficult movements. Some actors can change face ten times in twenty seconds, and yet you never see their fingers touch their face.
Of course, you realize that the actor has many different masks, one on top of the other. They are made from very thin silk in bright colours. If the actor turns his back to you, you think he is changing his mask while you cannot see him doing it. Then he shakes his head suddenly and that mask has changed, like magic, into another one!You cannot believe your eyes, and yet it has happened!
To be able to change the masks without being seen is a very special skill. It takes much time to learn it perfectly. The exact method used by the actors is a closely guarded secret that is only passed on from father to son or master to apprentice ( 学 徒 ) . As China's influence develops around the world, Chinese culture travels too.
A. Different colours have different meanings. B. Its history goes back many hundreds of years. C. But when he turns again to face you, it's the same mask. D. This old art form is making new friends all over the world. E. One of the most interesting and exciting forms is Sichuan opera. |
