[Progress Update] The Compilation and Publication Work of "Encyclopedia of Han Opera Art" Successfully Held at Wuhan University

(Correspondents: Li Kexin, Yan Shiting) On October 19, 2024, a progress meeting for the compilation of the "Encyclopedia of Han Opera Art," led by Professor Zheng Chuanyin, was held at our university.

Team members, including Huang Bei, reported on the progress, existing challenges, and future plans for related projects such as "Jumu Volume: Complete Collection of Chu Operas,", as well as the preparation and work plan for the "Music Volume." Overall, the "Drama Volume" and "Theory Volume" are advancing smoothly, with plans for submission and completion by 2025. The "Music Volume" has passed feasibility assessment and is moving into the specific implementation phase.

Advisor Wang Ankui stated that the encyclopedia has achieved significant results at this stage, which hold immeasurable importance for Han opera research and may even change the current status and landscape of Han opera studies. During the Q&A session, Chief Editor Zhu Weiming reflected on the arduous journey of the entire encyclopedia team, expressing high expectations for the future of Han opera research.

In the end, Professor Zheng Chuanyin, the chief editor of the "Encyclopedia of Han Opera Art," delivered a closing speech titled "Complete the compilation of the ' Encyclopedia on Han Opera Art’ on time and with high quality without procrastination" He emphasized that, after more than two years of hard work by over 20 scholars in the compilation team, significant progress has been made in collecting and organizing drama documents—especially the scripts from the Qing Dynasty and the Republic of China, as well as historical materials and theoretical criticism on Han opera since the Qing Dynasty. The search for Han opera scores and audio materials has also begun. He reiterated that his team would keep promises to deliver on their commitments without delay.

(Photos by Pang Wanyan and Li Zixi)