Reference requests rushed in last week. Asian Studies’ new year party attracted many people. I could only stood at the back for a short time. A white student asked for some ghost stories from Ming so he could compare with Liao Zhai. I just assumed he wanted English translation, until he confirmed that he really wanted to read the original scripts from China. I am glad to see the growth of non-heritage students at the party and the library.
Worked on Saturday and still receiving “happy New year” greetings in Engling-Cantonese and other languages. One Chinese student complained about hearing “kung hei fat choy” so often this time of the year, and it shouldn’t be considered as typical Chinese new year greetings. Sigh, what can I say?
Hard to believe that our students want to perform Peking Opera in English. Translated scripts, costumes, make-up, lots for them to learn before they can put up a show, but they are keen on real Jingju. Our traditional script translations are too old, but we do have a few. Thanks to Ye Ding’s personal experience and referral. Dr. Elizebath Wichman-Walzac, Chair of Theater Department of University of Hawaii, seems to be the pioneer in performing Jingju in English in North America. From 1985 onwards, she translated, directed and performed one Jingju play every four years. The famous ones such as Phoenix Returns to Nest (the script was published), Jade Hall of Spring, Judge Bao, The Yang Family Generals, etc. She directed remarkable performances. Wonder if she has published her script translations.