Changes aim to keep traditional art alive

Traditionally, a Tibetan opera take several days to perform.

Palden Wangchuk, a leading Tibetan opera performer, believes that is one reason the art is in danger of dying.

"Performers don't have time to perform an opera for several days, nor do the viewers have the time to watch for several days," he said.

As one of the pioneers who aim to update the centuries-old folk art and ensure its continuation, he has set out to modernize the style.

"The ancient operas were formed in accordance with the needs of the ancient people, and the operas performed now should also meet the needs of modern people", said Palden Wangchuk, who also serves as deputy head of the Tibetan Opera Troupe of the Tibet autonomous region.

"The duration of an opera is shortening both in the countryside and in the cities, and this is an inevitable part of development."

In Palden Wangchuk's view, keeping the vigor and vitality of Tibetan opera requires reducing their duration and creating new operas that satisfy modern viewers.

During the traditional Shoton Festival this summer, Palden played the title role in King Norsang - a new adaptation of one of the eight great classical Tibetan operas.

"Traditional operas take several days to finish the whole performance, while the duration of the adaptations has been reduced to less than two hours", said Phurchung, who wrote the shortenedversion.

"Adaptation is a difficult process to both keep the integrity of the story and fulfill the expectations of the audience," Phurchung said. "But we think it is worthwhile."

Sonam Tsetan, a Lhasa resident, watched the summer performance of the adaptation.

"Without getting tired or feeling bored, I watched the whole of King Norsang. I had a fun time," he said.

In 2013, the Tibetan Opera Troupe began adapting and modernizing the eight great classical Tibetan operas, and have vowed to finish the project within three years.

"Tibetan opera is included in the world's intangible cultural heritage. I hope Palden Wangchuk will become a driving force to lead many future generations to pass down this age-old precious heritage," said Thubtun, a well-known Tibetan comedian. "He is a hardworking man."