The Chao Opera performance. [Photo/fujian-szwhg.chaoxing.com]

Chao Opera is widely spread across Zhao'an, Yunxiao, and Dongshan county in Zhangzhou city, Fujian province, Chaoshan area in Guangdong, Hong Kong, Taiwan, as well as among overseas Chinese communities in Southeast Asia. It has been recognized as an extended national intangible cultural heritage item in the traditional drama category.

With a history of over 400 years, Chao Opera is considered one of the ancient theatrical genres. Based on the folk dances and ballad singing of the Chaozhou region, it formed its style under the influence of the Southern Opera, one of the oldest Chinese operas that originated in the Song Dynasty (960-1279).

Chao Opera is a comprehensive art form that integrates poetry, song, dance, and drama, delivering captivating and expressive performances with outstanding musical and artistic qualities, holding significant artistic value. Its music encompasses a blend of Quanzhou and Chaoshan region tunes, folk songs, traditional drum music, court music, as well as various vocal styles, contributing to the study of ancient music traditions in the Minnan region.

Since the founding of the People's Republic of China, professional Chao Opera troupes have been established in counties such as Yunxiao and Zhao'an. In the Zhangzhou region, there are over 200 Chao Opera troupes. Through performances and cultural exchanges in Southeast Asia, and beyond, Chao Opera plays an increasingly vital role in promoting traditional Chinese culture, fostering ties with overseas Chinese communities, and safeguarding China's sovereignty and national unity.