Spirit of Hong Kong Awards: veteran who keeps flame of Cantonese opera alive
Veteran Cantonese opera teacher Leung Sum-yee does not expect every child who enters her classroom to become a performer. If they leave knowing what good Cantonese opera sounds and looks like, she considers that worthwhile too. “My purpose was not to train stars or idols. I wanted more people to understand Cantonese opera and to have more audiences,” she said. That approach has guided Leung…
Veteran Cantonese opera teacher Leung Sum-yee's dedication to preserving the art form is evident in her focus on educating rather than training performers. Her goal is to foster greater understanding and appreciation of Cantonese opera among audiences. Since 1994, she has led the Kim Sum Cantonese Opera Troupe, which offers classes for all ages and brings the art form into schools and communities.
Leung was among the pioneers in introducing Cantonese opera education in schools, working in this field for many years. Some of her students have pursued professional careers in the art form. Her own interest in Cantonese opera began through family members and formal training from veteran playwrights. Teaching has always been a significant aspect of her work, with Leung emphasizing the importance of fundamentals like movement, vocal projection, diction, and theatrical conventions, even for those not intending to perform professionally.
To make the art form more accessible, she has composed simpler pieces for young students that address contemporary issues. Leung's influence extends to her students' manners and conduct, both on and off stage. Former student Doris Kwan Hoi-shan, now a professional performer and teacher herself, credits Leung for instilling values beyond the art form.
Among her current young students, many have been introduced to Cantonese opera by relatives, while others note improvements in speech, vocal projection, and confidence. One student mentions learning backstage etiquette. Leung adapts her teaching to accommodate school demands, allowing students to pause rehearsals for exams and return later.
Lee Sze-wai, a former student, nominated Leung for the Spirit of Hong Kong Awards, highlighting her contributions to former pupils' success and her continued dedication to teaching. Leung remains committed to teaching and creating new opportunities for students to perform, hoping that greater audience familiarity will lead to more opportunities for the art form.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
