Cantonese Opera Revitalizes Tradition with Trump-Inspired Performance

In an innovative reinterpretation of traditional Cantonese opera, a Hong Kong theatrical group has debuted a politically charged production titled "Trump, The Twin Presidents," featuring the antics of former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This fresh adaptation aims to engage a younger audience while preserving the essence of a centuries-old art form recognized by UNESCO as an "intangible cultural heritage of humanity." The production is staged at the Xiqu Centre, a prominent venue for Cantonese opera in Hong Kong, and has garnered sold-out crowds since its premiere.

The show, which first emerged in 2019 during Trump's presidency, incorporates humor and contemporary references reflecting the political landscape. It portrays a fictional narrative where Trump has a twin brother in China, named Chuan Pu, who must impersonate him during a tumultuous campaign amid a trade war. According to Edward Li Kui-Ming, the show's composer, this modern twist seeks to resonate with younger audiences who may not connect with traditional opera themes. "I have to use a new hero or new people, put it into the old drama and make it special and make it new," Li stated during an interview.

Cantonese opera, with roots tracing back over five centuries, has faced challenges in attracting younger viewers. Li's approach, integrating current political figures and events, is a strategic effort to rejuvenate interest in this cultural heritage. The performance not only features comedic exchanges such as Trump using a water gun against Zelensky but also references significant political events, such as Trump's controversies and public statements.

Loong Koon-tin, who plays Trump, has adopted modern theatrical techniques, including a wig and exaggerated gestures, to portray the former president authentically. This adaptation stands in contrast to traditional makeup styles, which are more elaborate and time-consuming. "Every time I submerge myself in the role, I am the Donald Trump," Loong expressed, highlighting his commitment to the character.

Audience reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, particularly from younger spectators like 16-year-old Adiva Zeng, who noted the relevance of the show’s themes in the context of current geopolitical events. "It has Ukraine and has the US, and then they are combining with the Chinese culture to show us what is happening right now. So it kind of catches my eye," Zeng remarked.

Li expressed aspirations to take the production beyond Hong Kong, potentially to Broadway, although he acknowledges logistical challenges and financing concerns. He believes both Trump and Zelensky would appreciate the theatrical homage, given their backgrounds in entertainment prior to entering politics. "Drama is life. Life is drama. And even…politics is drama," he concluded, encapsulating the essence of the production's narrative.

As Cantonese opera seeks to adapt to modern sensibilities, productions like "Trump, The Twin Presidents" exemplify a broader trend of cultural evolution, aiming to bridge the gap between tradition and contemporary relevance.

This fusion of political satire and traditional performance art not only revitalizes Cantonese opera but also invites dialogue about the impact of global politics on cultural expressions, positioning the art form as a dynamic medium for storytelling in today's world.