HKU Cantonese Opera Education Research and Promotion Project

Abstract

Cantonese Opera (aka Yueju Opera) had been inscribed in 2009 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanities. Cantonese opera is Hong Kong's local cultural treasure; therefore integrating Cantonese opera into the secondary school curriculum is a significant educational development in Hong Kong. Bamboo shed theatre is one of the most significant parts of Cantonese Opera in Hong Kong, and can be explored in various dimensions including performance, religious or ritual beliefs, and community. Through studying the local culture of Cantonese Opera in general and bamboo shed theatre in particular, students are exposed to learning experiences in a novel situation which help them to develop a broader aesthetic perspective and a critical understanding of different art forms. The learning activities aim at encouraging students to appreciate and treasure their own culture and traditional art form, recognizing Cantonese Opera as an intangible cultural heritage, and fulfilling their social responsibility as members of the global community to preserve their own cultural heritage by participating actively in promoting its sustainability. The study of the ritual beliefs and worships of bamboo shed theatre can also help students analyze the values that are essential to human bonding in rural communities.Students will be expected to reflect critically on the importance of preserving and promoting this intangible cultural heritage.