Torch Troupes

Torch Troupes

  • Overview
  • Crew

Status

Released

Release Date

May 5, 2006

Runtime

1h 50m

Genres

Documentary

Original Title

火把剧团

Director

Xu Xin

Description

In this vivid portrait of China's musical heritage, Sichuan Opera performers strive to keep a centuries-old artform alive. After thriving for 300 years, Sichuan Opera is an endangered art form. Having survived the Cultural Revolution, state-sponsored opera troupes now face extinction in the era of private enterprise. Opera master Li Baoting began his career at eight, but now performs pop songs with showgirls in cheap bars. His colleague Wang Bin performs in travelling tents, trying to resist the massive cultural changes threatening to wipe out this artform.