Ancient Qing architecture preserves opera art

Located in East China's province of Jiangsu, the Former Residence of Gan Xi is the largest and best preserved private residence from the Qing Dynasty in the city of Nanjing. It has been listed as the "three landscapes of Ming and Qing Dynasties in Nanjing" along with the Xiaoling Tomb and Nanjing Ming Dynasty City Wall.

The housing complex includes more than three-hundred rooms and belonged to Gan Xi, a collector and member of the Qing literati. Its layout is in strict accordance with the concept of feudal society and the hierarchy in the patriarchal family system. It was also designed to accommodate many children and grandchildren. The concept of several generations living under one roof is reflected in the architectural sense of the building's scale. As a result, space, location, decoration, size, and shape have roughly uniform requirements.

Part of the complex is being turned into the Nian Yi Club, a fashionable hangout for locals. A performance of the Kunqu opera "Peony Pavilion" is staged every night.

Tao Wenxiang, staff member, said, "There was a society created to renovate opera located in the residence. In protecting these buildings, we try explore the essence of local culture, and to carry on this historic legacy. "

The building complex proved to be a fitting venue for the 600-year-old Kunqu opera. The elegance and exquisiteness of the opera is echoed in the stately and dignified buildings. The performance seems to enliven the quiet chambers, transporting the audience back in time. The interplay of flute and plucked instruments produce a lingering effect in the show.

Ji Shaoqing, actor of Jiangsu Kunqu Opera Theatre, said, "Over ten years of promotion have enabled Kunqu to enter universities, middle and primary schools, enterprises and communities. After Kunqu was given World Intangible Cultural Heritage status on May 18th, 2001, a series of activities aiming to spread the art form was initiated. We have Kunqu performances here every night. "

Visited by thousands every year, the Former Residence of Gan Xi remains a cultural venue both for its architectural significance and the legacy it preserves.