Nantong's Tongzhou district has been dubbed, "China's Home of Quyi," according to the district government.

Tongzhou was awarded this title after local government received a document from the Chinese Quyi Artists Association on Jan 7.

The district government has always paid great attention to the development of quyi, the folk art form that includes ballad singing, storytelling and cross-talk.

They have provided financial assistance and issued favorable policies to support the development of quyi, building special platforms, exercise places and organizing mass performances.

Two performers from Nantong Opera Troupe participated in the CCTV 2019 New Year Opera Gala on Dec 29.

It was the first time that Nantong Opera was chosen from Chinese 348 local operas to participate in such a prominent evening gala.

"Our trip to Beijing has set several records for Nantong Opera," said Zhang Li, director of Nantong Opera Troupe.

"It was the first time for a Nantong Opera troupe to give a performance at the Grand National Theatre and the first time for Nantong Opera being performed at the CCTV New Year Opera Gala. It was also the first time that top leaders watched Nantong Opera in such a big occasion."

"We went to Beijing on Dec 14 and did rehearsals every day," she added. "The rehearsals were the toughest and most unforgettable in our lives."

Since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, top leaders began to watch the Peking Opera Gala before New Year's Day.

However, the central government has given greater attention to the development of different varieties of opera since 2014. Since then, the New Year Peking Opera Gala was changed into New Year Opera Gala.

Nantong Opera, which showcases the original features of Chinese Nuo culture, is quite popular among local people. The singing of Nantong opera is rough and simple, and the lyrics are easy to understand.

Zhang Li (left), director of the Nantong Opera Troupe of Tongzhou District, gives a performance at the CCTV New Year Opera Gala on Dec 29. [Photo/ntjoy.com]

Performers from opera troupes at the CCTV New Year Opera Gala on Dec 29. [Photo/ntjoy.com]