Wu Opera Brings 500 Years of Chinese Tradition to Johannesburg
South Africans were introduced to the enchanting world of Wu Opera, performed by the Zhejiang Wu Opera Research Center.
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers
The Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre at the University of Johannesburg was alive with colour, music, and cultural vibrancy on Monday, September 22, 2025, as South Africans were introduced to the enchanting world of Wu Opera, performed by the Zhejiang Wu Opera Research Center.
The event, hosted at UJ Arts & Culture’s Kingsway Campus, formed part of a cultural exchange programme showcasing Wu Opera — also known as Jinhua Opera — a traditional Chinese operatic genre with a history spanning over five centuries.
South Africans were introduced to the enchanting world of Wu Opera, performed by the Zhejiang Wu Opera Research Center.
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers
A Celebration of Heritage and Cultural Exchange
Audiences were treated to a rich programme of performances, including classics such as Nine-Section Dragon, Blocking the Horse, Carrying the Bridal Sedan Chair, Lu Bu Tests His Horse, and the evocative Three Battles with the White Bone Spirit. The show featured vivid emotive expressions, colourful costumes, and energetic movement — hallmarks of Wu Opera’s enduring appeal.
The evening opened with remarks by Professor Federico Freschi, Executive Dean of Arts, Design and Architecture at UJ, followed by Minister Counsellor Qin Zhanpeng of the Chinese Embassy, who underlined the importance of cultural exchange between South Africa and China.
“Tonight’s performance is not just a show—it is a chance for cultural exchange between China and South Africa. Through this kind of performance, we share not only art, but also understanding, respect, and feelings,” Minister Counsellor Qin told the audience.
Also in attendance was Mr. Huang Qinhua, Deputy President of the Zhejiang Wu Opera Research Center, who led the delegation of 24 performers to South Africa. The troupe’s visit continues a tradition of international cultural exchange, with Wu Opera having already been performed in 69 countries across five continents.
South Africans were introduced to the enchanting world of Wu Opera, performed by the Zhejiang Wu Opera Research Center.
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspaper
Wu Opera: A Living Tradition
Founded in 1956, the Zhejiang Wu Opera Research Center has been central in preserving and promoting this ancient art form. Over the decades, the troupe has won multiple national awards, including six Plum Blossom prizes — China’s highest honour in opera performance. The troupe has staged more than 500 shows annually in recent years, ranging from rural villages to international stages.
Their artistry has been showcased at major global events, including the 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). In 2025, South Africa became the latest country to experience the power of Wu Opera as a bridge between cultures.
South Africans were introduced to the enchanting world of Wu Opera, performed by the Zhejiang Wu Opera Research Center.
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers
Strengthening Ties Through Art
Vice-Chancellor and Principal of UJ, Professor Letlhokwa Mpedi, highlighted the role of the university in exchanging intercultural understanding through art.
The performance concluded with thunderous applause from the Johannesburg audience, many of whom were experiencing Chinese opera for the first time.
This cultural showcase underscored the growing bonds between China and South Africa, proving once more that art can transcend borders, languages, and traditions.
Join South Africans as they embark on a vibrant cultural journey, experiencing the enchanting world of Wu Opera, a 500-year-old Chinese tradition, live at the University of Johannesburg's Keorapetse William Kgositsile Theatre.
Image: Itumeleng English / Independent Newspapers