Gaojia opera has been active for almost 300 years in Fujian province in eastern China. Dating from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the national intangible cultural heritage is the most popular folk theater in the region. Many Gaojia opera performances can still be seen at weddings, funerals and some ceremonial occasions in the region.

Cendou village in Quanzhou is acclaimed as the place where the opera originated. Primary school students attend opera practice after school under the guidance of local senior performers. Daily training includes basic opera skills like sleeve dances, and most important the various clown roles, the highlight of the opera. The lessons are seen as a way of preserving and boosting the tradition.

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Clown roles are a feature of Gaojia opera. Performers learn facial distortions at a young age. Photos by Zhang Jiuqiang / Xinhua

Stretches for body flexibility, a basic requirement of the opera.

A student does a backward flip.