Vancouver’s Chinese community enjoys a good show on a Saturday night, and the Vancouver Cantonese Opera troupe (VCO) provided just that.
To the audience it was an enjoyable and nostalgic night filled with drama and laughter. To the performers and workers of the troupe, this was their way in preserving a traditional art form thousands of miles from home.
The day started early. Preparations, make-up, rehearsals along with the performance itself lasted until midnight.
For artistic director and VCO founder Rosa Cheng, all this effort was worth it.
“We want to promote our art form to the younger generation in Vancouver,” Cheng said. Her ambition was shown by her attempt to recruit me into their troupe. Singing and dancing, however, is not my strong suit.
The comedic play, “A Joyous Wedding,” brought smiles and laughter to the audience members throughout its five hours of performance.
Layers and layers of make-up are applied in the afternoon.
The rehearsals were followed quickly by dinner.
Costumes were donned in the last half-hour prior to the performance.
The show began at 7pm.
The audience included members of the troupe.
Next up.
Rosa Cheng stars in the final act of the five hour play.
