"We are not as young as we were in 2004 but we have gained more experience as Kunqu Opera performers, which allows us to better express the subtle feelings of the characters," she adds.

With a history of about 600 years, Kunqu Opera is considered China's oldest opera form and one of its most influential theatrical traditions. Like many traditional art forms, it was once on the verge of extinction. In 2001, Kunqu Opera was listed as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, which helped the ancient art form to receive more protection and survive.

In January 2021, Yu and Shen performed the full "youth version" of The Peony Pavilion in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, to a sold-out theater.

Contact the writer at chennan@chinadaily.com.cn