Cantonese Opera (粤剧), based in southern China and overseas ethnic Chinese communities, is a very formalized operatic form that emphasizes gymnastic and martial arts skills.

Originally based on the older forms of Chinese Opera, Cantonese Opera began to add local folk melodies, Cantonese instrumentation, and     1    (eventual)even Western popular tunes. Two different types of plays make up the Cantonese Opera— Mo, meaning “martial arts” and Mun, or “intellectual”. Mo performances are fast - paced, involving stories of warfare,     2    (brave)and betrayal. Mun, on the other hand, tends to be a     3    (slow), more polite art form. Most of the Mun stories are romances, ghost stories, or famous Chinese classic     4    (tale).

One notable feature of Cantonese Opera is the makeup. It is among the most complicated makeup systems in all Chinese Opera,     5     different shades of color and shapes, particularly on the forehead, indicating the mental state, trustworthiness, and physical health of the characters. For example, sickly characters have a thin red line     6    (draw)between the eyebrows, while comic or clownish characters have a large white spot on the bridge of the nose. Some Cantonese Operas also involve actors in “open face” makeup,     7     is so intricate and complicated that it resembles a painted mask more than a living face.

Today, Hong Kong is at     8     center of efforts to keep Cantonese Opera alive and booming. The Hong Kong Academy for the Performing Arts     9    (offer)two- year degrees in Cantonese Opera performance. Through such joint efforts, this unique and intricate form of Chinese Opera may continue to find audience for decades     10    (come).

Baduanjin, a form of fitness Qigong,     1     (originate) in Northern Song Dynasty with a history of more than 800 years. Initially, it developed as a way     2     (enhance) the physical health of soldiers. Over time, it evolved into a comprehensive system of exercises practiced by both martial artists and common people.

There are     3     total of eight movements, each designed to target different parts of the body and promote overall well-being. These movements are not merely physical exercises, but also include mental focus and     4     (control) breathing. The first movement benefits the shoulders, arms and upper back, enhancing     5     (flexible) and circulation in these areas. And the final movement involves bouncing     6     (gentle) on the toes while shaking the body,     7     releases tension throughout the body. One of the greatest advantages of Baduanjin lies in its accessibility. People of all ages and fitness levels can practice it     8     any special equipment or prior experience.

In recent years, Baduanjin has enjoyed great popularity among younger generations in China. As the world evolves rapidly, many young people are seeking approaches to     9     (find) inner balance and order. By embracing Baduanjin, younger generations are keeping the ancient practice alive and finding harmony between their modern lives and the inheritance of traditional Chinese culture. This is     10     young people and traditional culture meet.