Hubei Local Opera — to Be or Not to Be? – Chen Lin

From China.org.cn (link):

The rising of other cultural forms such as musicals, dramas and popular songs is affecting local operas across China. This is the case with local operas in Hubei Province. In an exclusive interview with china.org.cn, Yu Xiaoyu, an opera writer and director, gave his thoughts on the subject.

Both the Han and Chu operas are facing difficult times, according to Yu. As young people show no enthusiasm about them, they are short of performers as well as audience.

In an effort to win back audiences, the traditional entertainment takes in fashionable elements, such as dazzling lights, luxury scenery and elaborate costumes.