Ouyang Yuqian: Pioneer of Chinese drama, influencer of Guilin's culture

A rare photo of Ouyang at work. [Photo/WeChat account: guilinfestival]

Ouyang Yuqian (1889–1962), originally named Ouyang Liyuan, was a renowned Chinese dramatist, actor, playwright, and educator. He played a pivotal role in both modern Chinese drama and the reform of traditional Chinese opera. Ouyang's contributions were integral to the growth of Chinese theater, earning him prestigious titles such as vice chairman of the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles and the first president of the Central Academy of Drama.

In 1938, during the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, Ouyang arrived in Guilin and spearheaded the reform of the local Guiju Opera. His adaptation of Liang Hongyu into a new-style Guiju Opera became a sensation, with its themes of patriotism and anti-traitor sentiment resonating deeply.

Since then, Ouyang continued to reform Guiju Opera, founding the Guiju Opera Experimental Troupe and producing works that addressed the struggles of the time.