Shaoxing Opera Reform The Status Quo Study

As one of the most unique local dramas in China, Yueju (Shaoxing opera) evolves along with the modernization of China. Therefore, it is a sound combination of classical essence of drama and distinctive brand of the times. The reform starting from the 1940s and prospering during the 1950-1960s not only plays a critical role in the evolution of Yueju, but also pushes forward the whole modernization process of Chinese dramas.Since the 1980s, in face of the challenges of the times and the contemporary thoughts, the Chinese dramas including Yueju was again left no other choice but to reform. The latest reform has made some progress in performance, list of plays, direction and opera organizations, but in comparison with the reform during the 1940-1960s, there are still much to do. It is mainly owing to the fact that the reformers lacks a sound recognition of the opera positioning, task of the present reform and the relationship between the audience and the actors, causing some imbalances in the process of reform, hence reducing the scope and depth of the reform.This essay holds the view that at present, Yueju has become rather mature, with both necessary artistic style of a mature drama and rich historical heritage. Therefore, in the process of reform, the following three aspects should be handled properly: to respect the unique artistic styles of drama; to respect history and find balance between inheritance and innovation; and to widen the scope of audience, attaching importance to popularization of the drama.