There's far more to Chinese opera than the flashy costumes, dramatic makeup and distinctive singing style often associated with this type of musical theatre. The traditional art form, which can trace its roots back to the Three Kingdoms Period (A.D.
220–265), pays tribute to many aspects of China’s heritage, from classic folklore to martial arts to unique vocal techniques. Cantonese opera grand master Kam Sin Kiew recently sat down for an interview in Kuala Lumpur, with the assistance of an interpreter, to reflect on the golden era when Chinese opera was held in higher esteem. “We used to perform regularly on grand stages, where rapt audiences would bring their own stools to sit and watch.
But these days, we’re more often than not only called for special occasions, like weddings or birthdays,” says Kam. “In the past, we’d be booked for a good 40 days during the peak season, which takes place between the 5th and 9th months of the Chinese lunar calendar. But now, because of the economy, everyone’s tightening their belts, so it’s down to 10 to 12 days, or at the minimum, five days,” she adds.
Raised in Hong Kong, Kam is the fourth generation from a family of respected Cantonese opera artists. With over 50 years of experience in the art form, she’s made it her life’s work to continue her family legacy and currently leads the KSK Art Crew, which she founded in KL in 2012. This weekend (Sept 21 and 22), Kam will proudly watch as her KSK Art Crew performs a s.