Description

Despite being named an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2001, the 600-year old Kunqu Opera is facing difficulty drawing younger generations to continue this traditional art form. MY NEXT STEP follows the opera’s last young wusheng (martial hero), 28-year-old Yang Yang. With visually stunning details and intimate interviews, the film follows Yang as he reflects on his ambivalence to commit his life preserving this theatrical form. He feels the pressure of his parents’ wishes that he keeps his stable income as a respectable Kunqu performer, but is unable to see his future as a wusheng. Among many factors the documentary unflinchingly reveals, Yang questions the longevity and relevance of Kunqu Opera to contemporary China and the career’s ability to meet his material standards, and he further suggests his interest in deconstructing Kunqu itself. Finally, director Cheuk Cheung depicts the struggles that young Chinese artists face in writing and directing their own plays, particularly for those engaged in reimagining what traditional art means for today’s societal challenges.

— Anita Chang

Expected Guest in Attendance: Cheuk Cheung (Director)

Co-presented by: Hong Kong Association of Northern California

Credits

Producer: Ken Hui, Cheuk Cheung
Cinematographer: Szeto Yat-lui, Mak Chi-kwan, Shine Chiu
Editor: Law Mei-ling, Leung Man-shan
Sound: Chan Chi-fung
Music: Steve Hui

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