Cai Zhengren

In 2001 at UNESCO, an operatic art was made the first list of World Intangible Cultural Heritages. But fifty years earlier, Kunqu Opera had been at its lowest ebb. For 600 years, it was China's prevalent form of entertainment and inspired many off-shoots. But diversity eventually diluted its power. It seemed that Kunqu Opera was only lingering on. But one man said it was never meant to die. He's Cai Zhengren. From a budding player to a master of the art, Cai Zhengren has played a central role in the revival and rejuvenation of Kunqu.

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