The University of Michigan – Shanghai Jiao Tong University Joint Institute (UM-SJTU JI, JI hereafter) hosted the “Resonance of Chinese Opera, Everlasting Friendship” event on March 27, coinciding with World Theatre Day. Held at the Long Bin Building, the event brought together over a hundred Chinese and international faculty, students, alumni, and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate the fusion of Chinese culture and international exchange.
VIP attendants launch the “Splendid Shanghai Dream: The Art of Opera” exhibition during the event.
A Celebration of Cultural Heritage
In his opening remarks, SJTU’s Vice Executive Director of the University Council Ansheng Zhang highlighted SJTU’s commitment to global talent cultivation and emphasized the role of opera in cultural exchange, from Mei Lanfang’s international performances to modern digital dissemination. Representative of the event organizer, Shanghai Overseas Returned Scholars Association (SORSA) Vice President Min Zhou praised the event for fostering cross-cultural connections and reaffirmed SORSA’s dedication to deepening cultural diplomacy.
The event featured an exhibition titled “Shanghai-style Opera Dreams: Ink and Stage,” showcasing historical documents, costumes, and facial makeup that trace the evolution of Chinese opera. A captivating performance by Li Jun, a national first-class performer from the Shanghai Peking Opera Theatre, brought the classic Taking Tiger Mountain by Strategy to life. Faculty and students from SJTU’s Sinology Club and international students from JI also performed excerpts from The Legend of the Precious Consort and Ode to Pear Blossom, earning enthusiastic applause.
Peking Opera artist Jun Li from the Shanghai Peking Opera House performed an excerpt from Taking Tiger Mountain by Strategy.
Faculty and student representatives from SJTU’s Sinology Club, the Faculty Peking Opera Association, and JI international students perform on the stage.
Beyond performances, attendees immersed themselves in traditional Chinese arts at interactive stations featuring paper cutting, calligraphy, lacquerware, floral arrangement, and Shanghai-style ink carving. A tea ceremony area provided a tranquil space for discussions on opera and cultural appreciation.
As part of SJTU International Theatre Week, the Shanghai-style Opera exhibition extended across multiple floors of Long Bin Building, featuring sections on the origins and global spread of Chinese opera, an array of traditional costumes, and a student photography exhibit capturing the modern aesthetics of opera.
JI continues to emphasize aesthetic education as part of holistic student development. Through initiatives such as art mentorship programs, cultural festivals, and the “Hello, China” cultural courses, the institute fosters cross-cultural communication and mutual understanding. The event provided a unique platform for Chinese and international students to engage in meaningful cultural interactions, deepening friendships and appreciation for traditional arts.
Group photo of attendees
Moving forward, JI remains committed to expanding cultural exchange programs, integrating arts into education, and nurturing globally minded individuals. Through openness and inclusivity, the institute will continue to build bridges between cultures and contribute to international dialogue and understanding.
