Nuo Opera and Di Opera Masks

Nuo Opera and Di Opera Masks

　　Nuo Opera originated from primitive religion and involved ritualistic shamanistic activities to pray to deities and ward off evil spirits. The Nuo culture was very popular during the Han and Tang dynasties. During the Ming Dynasty, garrison troops brought the Nuo culture to Guizhou, where it was preserved in this isolated region after gradually disappearing in central China. Nuo Opera masks are exquisitely crafted and rich in romanticism, and are known as “living fossils of drama.” Di Opera originated from ancient Nuo performances and centers on themes of patriotism and martial valor. (Guiyang)