Long Intro on About Us Fusion Opera

“The Prop Master’s Dream” Fusion Cantonese Opera Premiere Highlights

A fusion Cantonese opera "The Prop Master's Dream" premiere

The Prop Master’s Dream Sneak Preview 1

The Prop Master’s Dream Sneak Preview 2

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溫哥華燕鳳鳴粵劇團呈獻 **“道具大師的尋根夢”** 。 道具大師的尋根夢是根據關華坤 (1929-2000) 的真實故事改編而成，他是一位傳奇的粵劇界道具大師，父親是華裔，母親是卑詩省的原住民。

- [新派粵劇『道具大師的尋根夢』首演花絮。](https://youtu.be/_1LstESnDvk)

- [新派粵劇『道具大師的尋根夢』首演花絮 2。 ](https://youtu.be/sxyDC19RgQQ)

- [新派粵劇『道具大師的尋根夢』先睹為快 1 – Peter and Haisla](https://youtu.be/YGxo0DEwfmI)

- [新派粵劇『道具大師的尋根夢』先睹為快 2 – Rosa and Jacky](https://youtu.be/0-QW-I6zvk0)


演出日詳情:

2022 年 11 月 05 日  

Annex Theatre, 823 Seymour St, Vancouver, BC 

道具大師的尋根夢是根據關華坤 (1929-2000) 的真實故事改編而成，他是一位傳奇的粵劇界道具大師，父親是華裔，母親是卑詩省的原住民。 華坤小時候父親帶他回中國廣東時，與母親失去了聯繫。 他在中國長大，曾在當地粵劇團受訓，成為一個粵劇演員，學習道具製作及後台佈景。 這部粵劇講述華坤返回加拿大尋根的旅程。 他偷偷登上一艘開往溫哥華的輪船，尋找他的真實身份和他的生母。 一路走來，他遇到了歧視、意想不到的友誼，以及對粵劇的重燃熱愛，這部粵劇將他視為藝術大師。 粵英雙語製作，老少皆宜。

Vancouver Cantonese Opera premiered the fusion opera "The Prop Master's Dream" on November 5th, 2022, at the Vancouver Annex Theatre. 

- [“The Prop Master’s Dream” Fusion Cantonese Opera Premiere Highlights](https://youtu.be/_1LstESnDvk)

- [A fusion Cantonese opera "The Prop Master's Dream" premiere on November 5th, 2022](https://youtu.be/sxyDC19RgQQ)

- [The Prop Master’s Dream Sneak Preview 1 – Peter and Haisla](https://youtu.be/YGxo0DEwfmI)

- [The Prop Master’s Dream Sneak Preview 2 – Rosa and Jacky](https://youtu.be/0-QW-I6zvk0)
 
 
Event Day:

Saturday, November 5, 2022, 2 pm and 7pm   

2022 年 11 月 05 日  

Annex Theatre, 823 Seymour St, Vancouver, BC 

**The Prop Master’s Dream** is based on the true-life story of Wah-Kwan Gwan (1929-2000), a legendary prop master born to a Chinese father and an Indigenous mother in BC. As a child, Wah-Kwan lost contact with his mother when his father took him to Guangdong, China and sent him to train as an apprentice with a local Cantonese Opera troupe. The opera follows Wah-Kwan’s journey as he comes of age and sneaks off on a steamship bound for Vancouver, in search of his true identity and birth mother. Along the way, he encounters discrimination, unexpected friendships, and a rekindled love for the opera that embraces him as a master of his art. A bilingual Cantonese-English production, open to all ages.

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1. 歌唱課：傳統粵劇音階/音符/節奏/樂句/唱法等。 • 小組課/半私人/私人 • 網上課程 • 定期舉行學生演唱會。
2. 表演技巧課程：傳統粵劇表演技巧，如水袖/圓桌步、手勢（如蘭花指）等 • 小組課程/半私人/私人。
3. 粵劇化妝課：傳統的“白紅臉”舞台化妝技術。
4. 頭飾和服裝 了解如何為舞台表演做好準備——教導如何穿戴精緻頭飾和穿著戲服的正確方法。
5. 『Opera in Care』 將粵劇戲台帶到老人院／療養院。 在其設施中表演粵劇折子戲。

詳情請致電 604-764-8181，或發送電子郵件至 vancanopera@gmail.com。

**Singing Lesson:**
Traditional Cantonese opera music scales / notes / rhythms /phrasing / singing technique, etc.
•	Group lessons / semi-private / private
•	On-line zoom lessons
•	Student recitals are held periodically.

**Performance Technique Lessons:**
Traditional Cantonese opera performance techniques such as watersleeves / round-table steps, hand gestures (e.g. orchid fingers), etc.
•	Group lessons / semi-private / private

**Cantonese Opera Signature Makeup Lessons:**
Traditional “white and red” face stage makeup technique.

**Headdress & Costume**
Learn how to get ready for a stage performance – the proper way to put on an elaborate headdress and a complicated/cumbersome costume.

**Opera in Care**
Perform Cantonese Opera excerpts at senior facilities – in modern day dress, or in full Cantonese opera regalia.

For detail, call 604-764-8181, or email vancanopera@gmail.com.

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**參與者的反饋:**

> Everyone said they felt more connected, learned a lot, and loved Rosa’s singing!

> I want to visit the Museum of Anthropology and am looking forward to going to see Rosa's upcoming opera.

> This is great info and not something you would typically hear about. Growing up my mom studied Cantonese Opera and actually taught voice lessons. So this is really cool to learn as my mom never told me anything about history.

> I had not made the connection between the popularity of overseas Cantonese opera and the discriminatory immigration laws of the US and Canada
 
> Excellent event. So informative, engaging, and unique in its focus on both Canada (Vancouver) and Hong Kong. Please thank the panelists!

> Try to watch more videos to appreciate Cantonese Opera, and watch out for the opening of the new production discussed in the program.

> The presenters’ obvious enjoyment and enthusiasm about their subject and sharing it with others.

> I am eager to investigate the online information about Chinese Opera and hope to attend a performance at some point.

> I was not able to view the entire program so am looking forward to watching the full event at another time. The smiles on all of the presenters’ faces when I joined helped me feel comfortable and engaged immediately, though I had missed most of the presentation!

> Learn more about Cantonese opera and attend Prop Master's dream

> I was introduced to an area that I knew nothing about and the presentation inspired me to learn more.

>Follow the upcoming show from the Vancouver Cantonese Opera group; follow Dr.Liu's future research; visit MOA to see Cantonese Opera objects.

> Went to subscribe to their Youtube channel. I am South African Chinese with grandparents who came around the same time as the exclusion period. Though little is known and will be hard to find info, I'm curious to see if Cantonese opera was popular there. I suspect so as my grandmother enjoyed watching and my mom seems somewhat familiar with some aspects of Cantonese opera

> Please send me ticket information for the Prop Master's Dream when available and I will share it with my personal networks and hope to watch/attend as well.




**FEEDBACKS FROM PARTICIPANTS:**

> This is a very new interpretation of Chinese opera. It contains traditional Chinese opera, drama and first nation elements. I really enjoy it. Since I am a big fan of Chinese opera, I would like to see more Chinese opera portion in your future shows.

> This show can really introduce Chinese opera to the main stream. I admire your tireless efforts. Please keep it up. Looking forward to seeing your next performance. Applause.

> I really loved the " play within a play segment" and am inspired to see non fusion operas.

> Was wonderful! I feel I learned a lot about my Chinese neighbours and some of their history in BC. I feel I now have a beginner’s knowledge of Cantonese opera as well. Thank you for making this work available to us.

> Video footage, multimedia and fusion music were interesting and enriching. It might help the audience who is new to Cantonese opera have an understanding of the opera format or conventional structure.

> The story and your connection to the lead character and the fact you have decided to do this fusion work is heroic for sure. Yes many want to keep Cantonese Opera pure but there is room to evolve and maybe reach a younger audience who can continue the Art in other directions. 

> Everyone said they felt more connected, learned a lot, and loved Rosa’s singing!

> I want to visit the Museum of Anthropology and am looking forward to going to see Rosa's upcoming opera.

> This is great info and not something you would typically hear about. Growing up my mom studied Cantonese Opera and actually taught voice lessons. So this is really cool to learn as my mom never told me anything about history.

> I had not made the connection between the popularity of overseas Cantonese opera and the discriminatory immigration laws of the US and Canada
 
> Excellent event. So informative, engaging, and unique in its focus on both Canada (Vancouver) and Hong Kong. Please thank the panelists!

> Try to watch more videos to appreciate Cantonese Opera, and watch out for the opening of the new production discussed in the program.

> The presenters’ obvious enjoyment and enthusiasm about their subject and sharing it with others.

> I am eager to investigate the online information about Chinese Opera and hope to attend a performance at some point.

> I was not able to view the entire program so am looking forward to watching the full event at another time. The smiles on all of the presenters’ faces when I joined helped me feel comfortable and engaged immediately, though I had missed most of the presentation!

> Learn more about Cantonese opera and attend Prop Master's dream

> I was introduced to an area that I knew nothing about and the presentation inspired me to learn more.

>Follow the upcoming show from the Vancouver Cantonese Opera group; follow Dr.Liu's future research; visit MOA to see Cantonese Opera objects.

> Went to subscribe to their Youtube channel. I am South African Chinese with grandparents who came around the same time as the exclusion period. Though little is known and will be hard to find info, I'm curious to see if Cantonese opera was popular there. I suspect so as my grandmother enjoyed watching and my mom seems somewhat familiar with some aspects of Cantonese opera

> Please send me ticket information for the Prop Master's Dream when available and I will share it with my personal networks and hope to watch/attend as well.


溫哥華燕鳳鳴粵劇團在舉辦《醒僑》工作坊

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《醒僑》是一部實驗性的新派粵劇，匯集了多位藝術家，共同慶祝歷史悠久的醒僑劇院，並分享唐人街居民在1930年代至1940年代動員起來爭取被承認為加拿大人以及在二戰中為加拿大而戰的非凡故事。

醒僑劇院建於1898年，位於溫哥華唐人街的上海巷544號。擁有500個座位，它是溫哥華第一個主要的粵劇劇院，也是華人移民精神和文化聯繫的場所。該劇院還是公共政治動員的場所。由於《排華法案》（1882-1947），華人移民受到嚴格限制，那些設法越過邊界的人在抵達後面臨嚴重的排斥和歧視政策。我們的作品揭示了這段歷史，並慶祝那些共同起來爭取法律上承認其權利和人性的社區成員。

通過融合粵劇、西方歌劇和當代戲劇，我們的目標是喚起人們對唐人街文化遺產及其被遺忘歷史的認識。1947年醒僑劇院的燒毀導致其在公眾意識中的消失，儘管它具有歷史意義。

這個故事探討了反亞裔歧視和壓迫的痛苦文化記憶，以及那些站起來的英雄人物。通過音樂和戲劇敘事，我們有一個獨特的機會創造一個引人入勝且具有變革性的戲劇事件，讓觀眾沉浸在他們的本地歷史中。



**理由**
《醒僑》探討了唐人街的衰退和貴族化以及反亞裔種族主義的興起。隨著犯罪、無家可歸和華裔加拿大老年人的孤立增加，溫哥華被稱為“北美反亞裔仇恨犯罪之都”。這個項目慶祝唐人街的遺產，強調社區的力量、同情心和韌性。它通過講故事和雙語節目促進跨文化和跨代關係，為年輕一代保留當地歷史。這個故事探討了反亞裔歧視和抵抗它的英雄人物，通過音樂和戲劇講故事創造一個沉浸式的體驗。

**藝術願景：**

《醒僑》是一部“新派粵劇”，將傳統粵劇與20世紀中葉溫哥華唐人街的音樂（藍調、爵士）和當代佈景和服裝設計相結合。故事、對話和唱腔主要基於粵劇，重述歷史故事和傳說。舞台道具、佈景和服裝取材於溫哥華的歷史唐人街和現代戲劇。我們將使用視頻投影、歷史音景和創意照明詩意地重現1930年代和1940年代的溫哥華唐人街氛圍。我們的藝術願景是創造一種全新的新派粵劇表演形式，反映溫哥華唐人街的文化混合和多樣的戲劇傳統。


The Awakening is an experimental Cantonese opera that brings together diverse artists to celebrate the historic Sing Kew Theatre and to share the extraordinary stories of inhabitants of Chinatown who mobilized there in the 1930s-1940s to fight for their right to be recognized as Canadians, and to fight on Canada’s behalf in WWII. 

The Sing Kew Theatre, built in 1898, was located at No. 544 Shanghai Alley in Vancouver Chinatown. At 500 seats, it was the first major theatre for Cantonese Opera in Vancouver and a place of spiritual and cultural connection for Chinese immigrants. The theatre also served as a place of public political mobilization. Due to the Chinese Exclusion Act (1882 - 1947), Chinese immigration was heavily restricted and those who managed to cross the border faced steep exclusionary and discriminatory policies upon arrival. Our piece exposes this history – and celebrates the community members who rose together to have their rights and humanity acknowledged legally. 

By fusing Cantonese opera, Western opera, and contemporary theatre, our goal is to revitalize awareness of Chinatown’s cultural heritage and its forgotten histories. The burning down of the Sing Kew in 1947 led to its erosion in public consciousness despite its historic significance.

The story explores very painful cultural memories of anti-Asian discrimination and oppression – and of the heroic figures who rose up. Using music and theatrical storytelling, we have a unique opportunity to create an engaging and transformative theatrical event that literally immerses audiences in their local history.


**Rationale:**

“The Awakening” addresses the decline and gentrification of Chinatowns and the rise of anti-Asian racism. With increasing crime, homelessness, and isolation among Chinese Canadian seniors, Vancouver has become known as the “anti-Asian hate crime capital of North America.” This project celebrates Chinatown’s heritage, highlighting the community’s strength, compassion, and resilience. It fosters intercultural and intergenerational relationships through storytelling and bilingual programming, preserving local history for younger generations. The story explores anti-Asian discrimination and the heroic figures who resisted it, using music and theatrical storytelling to create an immersive experience.

**Artistic Vision:**

“The Awakening” is a “fusion opera” blending traditional Cantonese opera with mid-century Vancouver Chinatown music (blues, jazz) and contemporary set and costume design. The story, dialogue, and singing are rooted in Cantonese Opera, retelling historic tales and legends. The stage props, set design, and costumes draw from Vancouver’s historic Chinatown and modern theatre. Video projection, historic soundscapes, and creative lighting recreate the 1930s-1940s Chinatown ambiance. The goal is to create a new form of opera that reflects the cultural hybridity and diverse theatrical traditions of Vancouver’s Chinatown.


Imperishable Love Act 6 promotion

Cantonese Opera In The Cloud "The Flower Princess" Act 1 "The Vow" 燕鳳鳴粵劇團 "雲端賞戲寶" 第一場 "樹盟"

Vancouver Cantonese Opera premiere "Cantonese Opera In The Cloud" - Free Event

"Cantonese Opera In The Cloud" The Peony Pavilion Aftershow 雲端賞戲寶之牡丹亭驚夢 “梨園掠影”

Cantonese Opera In The Cloud "The Flower Princess" Act 2 "The Calamity" 燕鳳鳴粵劇團 "雲端賞戲寶" 第二場 "香劫"

Cantonese Opera In The Cloud "The Flower Princess" Act 3 & Act 4. 燕鳳鳴粵劇團 "雲端賞戲寶" 第三場 及 第四場

Cantonese Opera In The Cloud "The Flower Princess"

Virtual Chinese New Year Party "Ringing In The Year of The Xo" on February 10, 2021.  "金牛賀歲轉乾坤".

燕鳳鳴粵劇團 "雲端賞戲寶"之"隋宮十載菱花夢" 第一場

燕鳳鳴粵劇團 "雲端賞戲寶" 之＂九天玄女＂第一場

雲端賞戲寶之碧波仙子 第一場 "潭畔相逢"

燕鳳鳴粵劇團 "雲端賞戲寶之牡丹亭驚夢" 第一場 及 第二場

燕鳳鳴粵劇團 雲端賞戲寶 之 "天仙配". 播映日期: 6月10, 17, 24 日 (星期六) 時間: 下午2點至3點半.

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“雲端賞戲寶” 是溫哥華燕鳳鳴粵劇團在2020年全力炮制的新項目。新冠疫情來襲，廣大觀眾苦於外出受限，未能如常觀賞粵劇戲寶，有見及此，燕鳳鳴推出新嘗試，讓觀眾安坐家中，在品嘗香茶濃啡和細嚼精制糕餅的同時，能欣賞心愛粵劇劇目。 此外更附加中英字幕及中英文旁述，更讓觀眾更透切解劇情的來龍去脈。

“Cantonese Opera in the Cloud" is a virtual production offered primarily to an audience whose outings are restricted by the current COVID-19 pandemic but wants to enjoy Cantonese Operas in the comfort of their own homes, having their afternoon teas.

Bamboo Theatre 2019 Yau Kau

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2015 Multicultural Heritage Festival June 27th ,2015 Day One

2016 Bamboo Theatre preview

2016 Bamboo Theatre - Multicultural Heritage Festival

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燕鳳鳴粵劇團是低陸平原多元文化活動的熱情和忠誠的主持及參與者。 2012 年，燕鳳鳴 在溫哥華舉辦了我們的第一個多元文化節。 從 2013 年到 2015 年，與列治文市合作，在Minoru 公園舉行多元文化節 。

從 2016 年到 2019 年，列治文市邀請 燕鳳鳴在 Minoru 公園的列治文世界節上啟動“戲棚舞台”。 燕鳳鳴 “戲棚舞台” 展示了來自各種民族文化令人驚嘆的藝術家陣容。

**戲棚**
戲棚是中國廣東省和香港的一個非常獨特的表演埸地；全個戲棚都是由大竹昇及木柱搭建而成的臨時建築物，整個戲棚分為前台、後台及觀眾席，通常在戲棚設有一個小小的神壇安放恭奉的神祗。

粵劇又稱廣東大戲，它除了娛樂坊眾之外、亦滲有其宗教如神誕及地方風俗：打醮等目的；人們多數稱之為神功戲。所以戲棚大多搭建在廟或祠堂前大空地、或運動場等地方。

大戲或神功戲都是在露天地方搭戲棚演出；當台期做完之後、立即拆除, 一切回復舊觀。



Vancouver Cantonese Opera is an enthusiastic and devoted presenter/participant of multicultural events in the Lower Mainland.  In 2012 VCO presented our first Multicultural Heritage Festival in Vancouver. From 2013-2015 the Multicultural Heritage Festival, in partnership with the City of Richmond, was presented at the Minoru Park in Richmond.  

Starting from 2016 to 2019, the City of Richmond invited VCO to activate a “BambooTheatre” at the Richmond World Festival at the Minoru Park.  The VCO Bamboo Theatre showcases a lineup of amazing artists from a myriad of ethnic cultures.

**What is a Bamboo Theatre**

Bamboo theatre is a very unique architectural building.  It is a temporary built theatre made with bamboos.  It has a front stage, backstage, and public area for the audience.  The main structure is bamboo and large poles.  It only appears in Guangdong Province the southern part of China and Hong Kong.
The Cantonese Opera is always combined with entertainment for local people and religious purposes.  The bamboo theatre usually stands in front of temples or ancestral halls.
Cantonese opera is often performed during deities’ birthdays in the bamboo theatre to amuse devotees as well as deities.  An altar, which serves as a VIP balcony for watching the performance, would be placed inside the bamboo theatre to accommodate the statues of deities.

Divine Threads: Cantonese Opera in Vancouver

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## Collaboration – Langara College

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![photos Langara #1.jpg](https://storage.googleapis.com/vancanopera/static/assets/photos_Langara_1_d854df2112/photos_Langara_1_d854df2112.jpg)
![photos Langara #2.jpg](https://storage.googleapis.com/vancanopera/static/assets/photos_Langara_2_1cc5a252dc/photos_Langara_2_1cc5a252dc.jpg)
![photos Langara #7.jpg](https://storage.googleapis.com/vancanopera/static/assets/photos_Langara_7_6f4c1f0b59/photos_Langara_7_6f4c1f0b59.jpg)
![photos Langara #3.jpg](https://storage.googleapis.com/vancanopera/static/assets/photos_Langara_3_fa87e3419b/photos_Langara_3_fa87e3419b.jpg)
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## New Works Pitch Program

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Vancouver Cantonese Opera “The Prop Master’s Dream” was chosen as one of the 5 projects to receive a special boost of support.  

The Association for Opera in Canada is a membership-based association for opera companies, opera artists, businesses, teaching institutions, and individuals. Our mandate is to create and sustain an environment that makes opera central to Canadian life. We work with members across the sector to mitigate challenges, celebrate successes, and help opera thrive in a changing environment. We are a communications hub, a connector and convenor, a champion and catalyst for change, and a relentless advocate. 

 
[The voice of opera in Canada](https://www.opera.ca/)

AOC has launched a program to support new works, with a focus on Equity-seeking artists.  This program, in its pilot year, helps new creators in the fields of opera and music theatre to produce their works, get them on stage, and get them on the road.

Click below for details:
 
[New Works Pitch Program Virtual Portal (pheedloop.com)](https://pheedloop.com/EVEMVCYYQTGXR/login/auth/?redirect=/EVEMVCYYQTGXR/virtual/?page=exhibitors&section=EXHU4H28MSWOJZ7LY)

[Congratulations to 5 Featured Projects](https://www.opera.ca/whats-new/congratulations-to-5-featured-projects/)

[Launching our Pitch New Works Program](https://www.opera.ca/whats-new/launching-our-pitch-new-works-program/)



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## Collaboration – Langara College

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## New Works Pitch Program 

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Vancouver Cantonese Opera “The Prop Master’s Dream” was chosen as one of the 5 projects to receive a special boost of support.  

The Association for Opera in Canada is a membership-based association for opera companies, opera artists, businesses, teaching institutions, and individuals. Our mandate is to create and sustain an environment that makes opera central to Canadian life. We work with members across the sector to mitigate challenges, celebrate successes, and help opera thrive in a changing environment. We are a communications hub, a connector and convenor, a champion and catalyst for change, and a relentless advocate. 

 
[The voice of opera in Canada](https://www.opera.ca/)

AOC has launched a program to support new works, with a focus on Equity-seeking artists.  This program, in its pilot year, helps new creators in the fields of opera and music theatre to produce their works, get them on stage, and get them on the road.

Click below for details:
 
[New Works Pitch Program Virtual Portal (pheedloop.com)](https://pheedloop.com/EVEMVCYYQTGXR/login/auth/?redirect=/EVEMVCYYQTGXR/virtual/?page=exhibitors&section=EXHU4H28MSWOJZ7LY)

[Congratulations to 5 Featured Projects](https://www.opera.ca/whats-new/congratulations-to-5-featured-projects/)

[Launching our Pitch New Works Program](https://www.opera.ca/whats-new/launching-our-pitch-new-works-program/)



Long Intro

The Prop Master’s Dream First Workshop

The prop Master’s Dream Second Workshop

The Prop Master's Dream Rationale Chinese

The Prop Master's Dream Synopsis Chinese

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《道具大師的尋根夢》講述了應國鳳的故事，她是一位開創性的表演者和導演，一直在引領著粵劇的復興。粵劇是一種結合了歌唱、舞蹈、表演、武術和現場音樂的古老藝術。

當2020年疫情爆發時，應國鳳剛剛開始製作一部名為《道具大師的尋根夢》的新派實驗性粵劇。這是她迄今為止最具挑戰性的項目，該新粵派劇融合了傳統中國音樂、爵士樂和原住民節奏，講述了她的朋友關華坤（1929-2000）的真實故事。關華坤的父親是中國華工，母親是一位原住民。華坤一歲時被父親帶回中國開平、父親死後被一個粵劇家庭收養並在廣東長大、成為粵劇演員和道具製作人，

當關華坤成年後回到溫哥華時，他繼續為當地的粵劇團製作道具，並因此與應國鳳成為朋友。關華坤從未學過多少英語，過著簡樸的單身生活，住在喜士定東街的一間寄宿房裡。儘管在他的一生中從未公開受到認可，但他深厚的粵劇知識使他在粵劇社區中獲得了傳奇地位。

這部紀錄片跟隨應國鳳的旅程，展示她從頭到尾領導《道具大師的尋根夢》製作的過程，提供了對歌劇精美的歌唱、服裝和編舞的親密幕後視角。應國鳳不斷挑戰傳統，匯集了一支多元化的藝術家團隊，創作出一部探索中華原住民關係、唐人街的興衰以及塑造關華坤生活的多種文化複雜性的作品。隨著應國鳳開始採訪人們以研究關華坤的生活，緊張局勢加劇。她意外地被華人社區內根深蒂固的種族主義所震驚。一些認識關華坤的長者使用貶義詞，稱他為“邋遢的醉漢”。他們敦促她放棄這個故事，認為與他有關會讓粵劇社區感到尷尬。但應國鳳並沒有放棄，反而更加堅定地要紀念關華坤。

她能成功改變社區內的偏見態度嗎？這部大膽的新派實驗性粵劇將如何被接受？面對全球疫情、唐人街的衰敗以及拯救一種瀕臨消亡的藝術形式的壓力，應國鳳必須調動所有資源來完成這個開創性的項目。應國鳳是一位精力充沛的長者，擁有古怪的幽默感和不屈不撓的精神，她自己也在打破對年長華人女性作為領導者、藝術家和精明社會推動者的刻板印象。

《道具大師的尋根夢》是一部雙語粵語和英語製作的紀錄片，將是第一部聚焦於在北美拍攝的粵劇的長篇紀錄片，並提供對這一長期以來一直是唐人街文化心臟的離散藝術形式的內部視角。


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這部紀錄片從頭到尾記錄這新編實驗粵劇《道具大師的尋根夢》的製作旅程，講述了粵劇演員關華坤（1929-2000）的真實故事。關華坤的父親是華人， 母親是原住民。  當華坤還是嬰孩時， 他的父親把他帶回中國，留下了他的原住民妻子和女兒。華坤在中國廣東長大。

華坤成年後回到溫哥華，帶著原住民的樣貌，不會說英語，只說台山話。 華坤 從事過許多卑微的工作。他從來沒有學過多少英語，過著卑微的生活方式，在唐人街一間公寓裡過著單身漢的日子。

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*Dim sum lunch in Chinatown*

 雖然在他的一生中從未被公開承認，但華坤對粵劇舞台道具製作的才華為他贏得了溫哥華唐人街粵劇界的傳奇地位。 他的記憶值得被保存、尊重和慶祝。

這記錄片記錄著應國鳳製作『道具大師的尋根夢』的旅程。她從頭到尾領導著這新編實驗粵劇的製作。應國鳳是一個勇於嚐試的先鋒粵劇演員。  她是燕鳳鳴粵劇團的始創人及藝術總監。  她將匯集多元化的藝術家、藝術和文化顧問團隊，探討華人與原住民的關係、唐人街的興衰，以及華坤穿越兩大洲和文化時的非凡生活。
一部粵語和英語雙語作品，探討卑詩省華人與原住民的關係及歷史。這記錄片還會專注於北美的粵劇歷史，探討粵劇在世界各地唐人街文化藝術的形式。

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*Wah Kwan backstage with Rosa Cheng*


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“The Prop Master’s Dream” is the story of Rosa Cheng, a trailblazing performer and director who’s been leading the way in revitalizing Cantonese Opera, a centuries-old art that combines singing, dancing, acting, martial arts, and live music. 

When the pandemic took hold in 2020, Rosa had just started producing an experimental opera titled “The Prop Master’s Dream”. Her most daring project to date, the opera fuses traditional Chinese music, jazz, and Indigenous rhythms to share the true-life story of her friend Wah-Kwan Gwan (1929- 2000).  Wah Kwan was born to a Chinese father and an Indigenous mother.  When Wah Kwan was one year old, his father took him back to China.  After his father died, Wah Kwan was adopted by a Cantonese opera family.  He became a Cantonese Opera performer and a props maker.

When Wah-Kwan returned to Vancouver as an adult, he continued working as a prop maker for the local Cantonese operas and thus befriended Rosa. Wah-Kwan, who never learned much English, led a humble lifestyle as a bachelor in a rooming house on East Hastings Street. Although never publicly recognized in his lifetime, his profound operatic knowledge earned him a legendary status in the Cantonese opera community that embraced him. 

This documentary follows Rosa’s journey as she leads the production of The Prop Master’s Dream from beginning to end, providing an intimate behind-the-scenes view of the opera’s exquisite singing, costuming, and choreography. Ever pushing the boundaries of tradition, Rosa brings together a diverse team of artists to create a challenging piece that explores Chinese-Indigenous relations, the rise and fall of a gentrifying Chinatown, and the many cultural complexities that shaped Wah-Kwan’s life as he traversed continents and cultures. Tension grows as Rosa begins interviewing people to research Wah-Kwan life. She’s unexpectedly taken aback by the entrenched racism within the Chinese community. Some elders who knew Wah-Kwan use derogatory terms, calling him a “disheveled drunk.” They urge her to abandon the story, arguing it would embarrass the opera community to be associated with him. But Rosa doesn’t give up and grows even more determined to honor Wah-Kwan’s memory.

 Will she succeed in transforming the prejudiced attitudes in her community? How will this daring new opera be received? Pitted against the challenges of a global pandemic, a decaying Chinatown, and the pressure to save a dying art form, Rosa must marshal all her resources to pull off this groundbreaking project. A spry elder with a quirky sense of humor and an indomitable spirit, Rosa herself is defying the stereotypes of what older Chinese women can achieve as leaders, artists, and savvy social instigators. 

A bilingual Cantonese and English production, The Prop Master’s Dream will be the first feature-length documentary to focus on Cantonese Opera filmed in North America, and to provide an insider’s perspective on a diasporic art form that’s long been the cultural heartbeat of Chinatowns everywhere.

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The documentary follows the production of a fusion opera "The Prop Master’s Dream" from beginning to end, sharing the true-life story of Wah-Kwan Gwan (1929-2000) a Cantonese Opera performer with a Chinese Father and an indigenous mother. Wah-Kwan’s father took him back to China leaving behind his indigenous wife and daughter. Wah-Kwan was raised in Guangdong, China. When Wah-Kwan returned to Vancouver as an adult, with his indigenous features, spoke no English, only Taishan Chinese dialect.  Wah-Kwan worked many menial jobs. He who never learned much English led a humble lifestyle and lived out his days as a bachelor in a rooming house on East Hastings Street.

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*Dim sum lunch in Chinatown*

Although never publicly recognized in his lifetime, Wah-Kwan’s prop-making talents earned him a legendary status in the Vancouver Chinatown Cantonese opera community that embraced him. WahKwan led a remarkable life and his memory deserves to be preserved, honored, and celebrated. 

“The Making of the Prop Master's Dream” follows Rosa Cheng's journey as she leads the production of the fusion opera from beginning to end. Rosa Cheng, a trailblazing Cantonese Opera performer and the Artist Director of VCO, will bring together a diverse team of artists, artistic and cultural advisors to explore Chinese-Indigenous relations, the rise and fall of a gentrifying Chinatown, and Wah-Kwan’s extraordinary life as he traversed continents and cultures. 

A bilingual Cantonese and English production that explores Chinese-Indigenous relations in B.C. history. It will also focus on Cantonese Opera in North America and provide an insider’s perspective on a diasporic art form that has long been the cultural heartbeat of Chinatowns everywhere.

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*Wah Kwan backstage with Rosa Cheng*


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“The Making of the Prop Master’s Dream”

製作『道具大師的尋根夢』的記錄片

Vancouver Cantonese Opera photo album

The Peony Pavilion

The Romance of the Broken Mirror

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粵劇是一種結合歌唱、對話、動作和手勢的獨特藝術形式。 表演者的動作和手勢具有高度的程式化和象徵意義。 粵劇的特點是曲調多變，唱腔抒情，器樂合奏規模龐大，打擊樂奔放喧鬧。

Cantonese opera is a unique art form that combines singing, dialogue, movements, and gestures. The movements and gestures of the performers are highly stylized and symbolic. Cantonese opera is characterized by a great variety of tunes, a lyrical style of singing, a large instrumental ensemble, and spirited and clamorous percussion music.

三夕恩情廿載仇

揮淚哭南唐

花田八喜之棧會

群英會之小宴

同是天涯淪落人

金石缘

三看御妹

花蕊夫人

雷鳴金鼓戰笳聲

胡不歸之別妻

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燕鳳鳴粵劇團 除表演長劇以外，還會演出折子戲/演唱會。

- 折子戲 是著名經典戲曲的片段，可以說是整部戲的靈魂，在舞台上一幕幕上演。
- 演唱會注重演唱技巧，特別注重聲調藝術，分為三類：平喉 （男）， 子喉 （女）及 大喉 （花      臉）。 配合粵劇精髓音樂，曲調極其豐富。

燕鳳鳴粵劇團都會邀請 本地及國際嘉賓參與演出。


In addition to presenting full-length operas, Vancouver Cantonese Opera also presents:

- Excerpts or Opera Highlights are sections of famous classic operas being performed on stage in one act.  These highlights can be the soul of the whole opera.

- Concerts and Recitals emphasize Cantonese opera singing skills, with special attention to the art of vocal tones and techniques.  With the essence of Cantonese opera music, the tune is extremely rich.

VCO hosts these shows featuring international guest performers and troupe performers.


Anticipate the REMOUNT OF THE PROP MASTER’S DREAM

The Prop Master's Dream" Nov.2.2024 (Sat.) Meet the Stars & Masterminds

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**關華坤是誰？**

關華坤出生於卑詩省一位華人父親和原住民母親的家庭。他的父親關先生來到加拿大參加加拿大太平洋鐵路的建設，後來遇見了他的妻子露西。經過多年的辛苦勞動，關先生的健康狀況惡化，他帶著關華坤回到中國，留下了露西和他們的女兒。在中國，關華坤被一位粵劇表演者收養，並接受了粵劇和道具製作的訓練。成年後，關華坤回到加拿大尋找他的生母，因語言和背景而面臨歧視。

《道具大師的夢想》突顯了華裔加拿大人和原住民所面臨的歷史性種族歧視，提高了對種族關係和反種族主義的認識。這部融合歌劇講述了關華坤的真實故事，將傳統粵劇與現代元素相結合。

2022年觀眾對《道具大師的尋根夢》的反應如何影響了今年的製作決策？

２022年觀眾的熱烈反應和售罄的演出促使我們決定今年重新上演《道具大師的尋根夢》。為了提升觀賞體驗，我們增加了各種新元素，旨在在新派粵劇成功的基礎上滿足粵劇愛好者的需求。


**Who is Wah-Kwan Gwan? **

Wah-Kwan Gwan was born to a Chinese father and an Indigenous mother in B.C. His father, Gwan, came to Canada to work on the Canadian Pacific Railway and later met his wife, Lucy. After years of hard labor, Gwan’s health declined, and he returned to China with Wah-Kwan, leaving Lucy and their daughter behind. In China, Wah-Kwan was adopted by a Cantonese opera performer and trained in opera and prop making. As an adult, Wah-Kwan returned to Canada to find his birth mother, facing discrimination due to his language and background.

“The Prop Master’s Dream” highlights the historical racism faced by Chinese Canadians and Indigenous people, raising awareness of race relations and anti-racism. This fusion opera tells Wah-Kwan’s true-life story, blending traditional Cantonese opera with modern elements.

How did the audience’s reaction to the opera in 2022 shape the decisions for this year’s Production?

The enthusiastic response and sold-out performances in 2022 led to the decision to remount “The Prop Master’s Dream” this year.  To enhance the experience, new components have been added, building on the opera’s success and meeting the demand from opera enthusiasts.



道具大師的尋根夢 2022

外展計劃

Reviews

醒僑

雲端賞戲寶

戲棚

合作

記錄片

長編粵劇

折子戲/演唱會

道具大師的夢想 2024

燕鳳鳴粵劇團

感謝你們