I have loved singing and performing ever since I was
very small. I remember that it was my mother's encouragement
that led me to start learning Cantonese Opera, and
I quickly developed a liking for this traditional art.
The beginnings of my performing career can be found
here.
Drama is an art of synthesis. In my many years of
giving performances, I studied and practised not only
the art of acting, but also scriptwriting, composing,
costume and set design, hoping that with the accumulation
of experience I would be better able to present the
art of Cantonese Opera.
All Cantonese operas contain virtuous teachings on
loyalty, fidelity, moral integrity and righteousness.
Providing not only entertainment but also educational
materials for life, they inspire us to show the brighter
side of human nature. Added to that are the artistic
attainments of actors and actresses in their singing
and gesturing skills. Cantonese operas are indeed as
condensed as Chinese paintings: they become more and
more fascinating the closer we look.
In recent years, I have returned to the stage to raise
funds for charity, written scripts and composed music,
and started afresh on my attempts to design stage costumes
and sets. My lifelong relationship with Cantonese Opera
has continued.
I hope that with the efforts made in academic research
and in the preservation of operatic treasures and performance
practices, the fine tradition of Cantonese Opera will
continue to shine through future generations with glittering
brilliance.
Fong
Yim Fun
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