The transmission and preservation of Zhuang opera in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China

This research aims to deepen the understanding of the transmission and preservation efforts of Zhuang Opera, focusing on both its Northern and Southern styles. The qualitative study examines the methods and practices involved in passing down this cultural heritage, as well as the challenges faced in maintaining its relevance and artistic integrity. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with experts, performers, and local inheritors, providing a comprehensive view of the preservation process. The research was conducted in three key locations: 1) Nanning, the capital of Guangxi and home to the Guangxi Zhuang Opera Troupe, a pivotal institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Zhuang Opera; 2) Jingxi, a region known for its rich history and central role in Southern Style Zhuang Opera; and 3) Tianlin, a key area recognized for its Northern Style Zhuang Opera, offering insights into the unique cultural and artistic characteristics of this style. These sites were selected to ensure regional diversity and to reflect the varying strategies used across different communities. Findings reveal that the transmission and preservation of Southern- and Northern-Style Zhuang Opera rely on structured mentorship, government support, and youth engagement. To sustain both styles, strategies include protecting inheritors through formal training programs, expanding and professionalizing troupes, fostering new scriptwriting initiatives, integrating Zhuang Opera into school curricula, increasing performance opportunities beyond traditional festivals, and ensuring continued institutional backing. Community participation and local pride were also identified as significant factors in sustaining interest among younger generations. These efforts address challenges such as declining successors, reduced public exposure, and the need for contemporary relevance in an evolving cultural landscape. By implementing targeted measures that combine education, performance innovation, and policy support, Zhuang Opera can continue to thrive as a vital cultural heritage of the Zhuang people and maintain its role in China’s broader intangible cultural legacy.