Yu Zhenfei

(b Suzhou, 1902; d 1992). Chinese Kunqu opera performer. Undoubtedly the 20th century’s most distinguished performer of Kunqu, Yu Zhenfei was most noted for his performance of xiaosheng (young scholar-lover) roles. He also performed in Beijing opera, belonging to troupes headed by such notable performers as Mei Lanfang and Cheng Yanqiu, and was an accomplished player of the dizi, the transverse flute which is so essential to the musical accompaniment of Kunqu. He wrote a treatise on Kunqu acting and several other works.

Yu Zhenfei was the son of the Kunqu specialist Yu Zonghai (1847–1930). After early training, in 1923 he gained a major opportunity when the great dan performer Cheng Yanqiu visited Shanghai and invited him to share the stage with him in the role of the scholar-lover in the centrepiece scene of the famous ‘Peony Pavilion’ (Mudan ting) by Tang Xianzu (1550–1617). This item, entitled Youyuan jingmeng (‘Wandering in a Garden, Startled from a Dream’) became one for which Yu was particularly well regarded. In 1960 this scene was made into a film, with Yu Zhenfei and Mei Lanfang in the central roles.

Other than during the Cultural Revolution, Yu Zhenfei did well under the Chinese Communist Party, which he joined in 1959, serving the regime actively as a Kunqu performer, educationist and administrator. In 1958 he made a major visit to Europe, performing Kunqu there, and in 1980 his 60th anniversary on the stage was commemorated with much fanfare.

WRITINGS

Zhenfei qupu [Musical scores of Yu Zhenfei] (Shanghai, 1982)

BIBLIOGRAPHY

and other resources

Su Yi and others: Zhongguo jingju shi [The history of Beijing opera in China], ii (Beijing, 1990), 625–31

Recordings

Changsheng dian [The Palace of Long Life], Zhongguo changpian chang M-108 (c1960)

Kunju: Qiangtou mashang [Kunqu: ‘The Top of a Wall, on Horseback’], Zhongguo changpian chang M-290 to M-295 (c1960)

Zhongguo xiqu yishujia changqiang xuan, 52: Kunqu, Yu Zhenfei [Selected vocal melodies of Chinese opera artists, 52: Kunqu, Yu Zhenfei], ed. Zhongguo yishu yanjiuyuan Xiqu yanjiusuo, China Record Co. HD-152 (1984)

COLIN MACKERRAS