Cantonese Opera(粵劇)

Also known as Yueju, the Cantonese Opera initially was very similar to the Peking opera form, but has developed a unique style of its own. It is generally agreed that it developed in the province of Canton (Guangdong) sometime by the 12th century.

Although it is traditional in the sense of involving music, singing, martial arts, acrobatics, and acting - it has evolved to incorporating modern Chinese songs and even Western music.

The Cantonese opera is known for its strong emphasis on lyrical storytelling, painted faces, and colorful clothing. It uses the same four characters as the Peking form does - the Sheng (gentlemen), Dan (women) , Jing (rough men) and Chou (clowns).

Because of its strong symbol of  culture and tradition it was inscribed in the UNESCO Cultural Heritage List in 2009.