Pingtan, known as “评弹” in Chinese, is an age-old performing art originating in southern China. It seamlessly weaves together storytelling, melodic singing, and humor to vividly depict an array of characters and narratives. Infused with a mix of cleverness and charisma, Pingtan artists utilize distinctive tones, voices, and expressions to captivate the audience, delivering both entertainment and insightful commentary on societal themes. This unique folk art offers a delightful and educational experience, proudly showcasing China’s rich cultural heritage.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Chinese culture this Lunar New Year season with a spectacular pingtan performance, hosted by the Renwen Society at China Institute in collaboration with various Chinese community organizations in New York City. Presented by ten exceptional artists from the prestigious Shanghai Pingtan Troupe, “Harmony in Strings” assures an enchanting afternoon filled with traditional storytelling, melodious singing, and humorous narratives.
As the strings resonate, these skilled performers will transport you to a world where ancient tales come to life through their unique blend of wit and artistry. Join us for a captivating celebration of tradition and talent, as we welcome the Lunar New Year with the vibrant energy of Shanghai’s illustrious Pingtan tradition.
Free, but advance registration is requested.
评弹又称苏州评弹、说书或南词，是苏州评话和弹词的总称，是一门古老、优美的传统说唱艺术。 评话通常一人登台开讲，内容多为金戈铁马的历史演义和叱咤风云的侠义豪杰。弹词一般两人说唱，上手持三弦，下手抱琵琶，自弹自唱，内容多为儿女情长的传奇小说和民间故事。评话和弹词均以说表细腻见长，吴侬软语娓娓动听；演出中常穿插一些笑料，妙趣横生。弹词用吴音演唱，抑扬顿挫，轻清柔缓，弦琶琮铮，十分悦耳。经过历代艺人的创造发展，曲调流派纷呈，风格各异。近40多年来，评弹从内容到形式推陈出新，传统书目得到整理提高，反映现实生活的新编书目陆续涌现，中篇和短篇等新的演出形式日臻完善。
龙年春节即将来临之际，华美人文学会联手美纽约江浙沪侨团，于2月3日（周六）下午2点至4点特邀上海评弹团八位国家一级演员和一位二级演员共九位艺术家为纽约地区的民众奉上一场精彩纷呈的评弹演出。
上海评弹团建于1951年，是评弹界第一个国家剧团，也是目前最具实力的评弹演出团体之一。上海评弹团长期坚持“出人、出书、走正路”，流派纷呈，各有特色。近年来，上海评弹团不断涌现大批保留剧目，包括评话《三国》《英烈》《隋唐》和弹词《珍珠塔》《玉蜻蜓》《白蛇传》《三笑》《描金凤》等，在各项大赛中屡获殊荣。带着深深的中华评弹文化，上海评弹团多次赴海外演出和讲学，足迹遍及澳洲、东南亚、欧美以及港、台地区，受到海外华人和外国朋友的广泛赞誉。
此次出演的艺术家有：高峻、吴向隽、姜啸博、黄海华、陆嘉玮、周慧、陆锦花、陶莺芸、朱琳。
上海评弹团此次演出12个片段，涵盖弹词、评话的开篇、选曲、选回等多种形式。曲目选择全部来自书坛经典力作，但在编排上通过鲜明的主题、灵活的编排和全新的搭档，令人耳目一新。演出既通过原汁原味的经典演绎，让观众感受到评弹雅致隽永、抒情缠绵的传统特色，更不乏轻松诙谐、热烈恢弘的新鲜感受，可谓灵动活泼，风格多样。
China Institute’s cultural programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
