Online Reporter
AUDIENCES in Zimbabwe’s capital were treated to a rare cultural showcase on Monday night as the world-renowned Zhejiang Wu Opera Research Centre brought China’s ancient stage art to life at the 7 Arts Theatre in Avondale.
The event showcased Wu Opera, one of China’s oldest traditional opera forms originating from Zhejiang Province.
Famous for its loud, robust singing, vibrant facial makeup and breathtaking martial acrobatics, Wu Opera is widely celebrated as the ancestral forerunner of many southern Chinese opera styles.
Speaking at the performance, Minister-Counsellor Tang Xiaoping of the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe highlighted the deep significance of cultural ties between the two nations, noting that artistic performances serve as vital bridges for mutual understanding and people-to-people exchange.
“Cultural exchanges form the bedrock of the all-weather friendship between China and Zimbabwe,” said Minister-Counsellor Tang Xiaoping.
“Bringing the rich heritage of Wu Opera to Harare offers our Zimbabwean brothers and sisters a direct experience of China’s multi-centennial traditions, reinforcing mutual appreciation and shared values.”
Organised in collaboration with the China-Zimbabwe Exchange Centre and supported by the Jinhua Municipal People’s Government, the showcase brought together diplomats, Government officials and local art enthusiasts. Performers delivered classic excerpts featuring stylised movement, intricate stage combat and expressive vocal techniques that drew enthusiastic applause and cheers throughout the night.
The tour forms part of broader cultural initiatives under the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, aimed at strengthening ties through arts, tourism and educational interaction across the continent.
