When Ling Yichen and Jun Moran unexpectedly traveled to the prosperous Shenghua Dynasty, they were like two unique stars who fell into the entertainment industry of this ancient era, embarking on a wondrous journey full of new discoveries. As they delved deeper into it, they gradually realized that the ancient and modern entertainment industries had many astonishing similarities, yet were also vastly different, like two parallel art stages, each performing its own unique brilliance and sorrow.
In this prosperous era, the entertainment industry presented itself to the world in a unique way. Opera was undoubtedly the most dazzling jewel of the time, with performers on stage shining like stars, weaving magnificent and colorful dream worlds for the audience with their singing, movements, and performances. Similar to the modern entertainment industry, ancient performers also yearned for fame. They diligently honed their skills offstage, immersing themselves in the study of opera day and night, from dawn till dusk. The melodious and graceful singing required long hours of vocal warm-up exercises to reach a level that resonated throughout the halls; and the beautiful and graceful movements required repeated basic training, such as leg stretches, backbends, and stage walks, to achieve a fluid and effortless stage presence.
When Ling Yichen and Jun Moran first entered this ancient entertainment circle, they were stunned by a grand opera performance. On stage, a famous actor was performing a classic tragic love story. His mellow voice, like a fine wine, flowed slowly through the air, each note filled with deep emotion; his figure was graceful and charming, every gesture seemingly possessing a magic that captivated the audience. Jun Moran couldn't help but softly admire, "This is quite similar to modern stage plays. The actors are all giving their all to create their characters and convey emotions." Ling Yichen nodded in agreement, "Yes, and look at the audience's reaction. Their love and admiration for the actors is no less than that of modern fans for celebrities."
Indeed, ancient entertainers also had their own fan base. High-ranking officials, scholars, and ordinary people alike would go to great lengths for their favorite performers. After a performance, they would spare no expense to present precious gifts, hoping to win a smile from the entertainer; they would discuss the entertainer's latest news in the streets and alleys, much like modern fans enthusiastically discussing celebrities' schedules on social media. Some even went so far as to fight with others to protect their beloved entertainers. However, unlike the modern entertainment industry, ancient entertainers had a relatively low social status. They were considered "actors," residing at the bottom of society, and often suffered discrimination and prejudice. Despite their dazzling stage presence, they had to endure much injustice and humiliation offstage.
In the ancient entertainment industry, the path to fame for performers was fraught with hardship and setbacks. Besides their own skill, they also needed the appreciation and support of powerful figures. Many performers would actively seek out the residences of high-ranking officials, becoming their retainers and gaining attention and opportunities through performances. Once they gained the favor of a powerful figure, they could potentially ascend to a higher and larger stage, thus achieving widespread fame. However, this path was also fraught with immense risk, as their fate was often in the hands of the powerful. If they inadvertently offended a powerful figure, they could instantly lose everything, even facing imprisonment. Witnessing this, Ling Yichen couldn't help but sigh, "This is far more complex than the modern entertainment industry. While modern artists also face various pressures and challenges, at least they have a relatively fair competitive environment and legal protection."
Jun Mo Ran developed a strong interest in the performance styles of the ancient entertainment industry. In this era, theatrical performances were primarily held in theaters and the residences of high-ranking officials and nobles. Theaters were where ordinary people watched performances; the environment was noisy, and the audience was a diverse mix, but it was full of vibrant life. The residences of high-ranking officials and nobles, on the other hand, were more elegant venues, with performances on a larger scale and at a higher level, and the audience consisted mostly of people of status and position. Compared to modern cinemas and theaters, ancient performance venues, though simple, possessed a unique charm. In theaters, audiences could interact closely with the actors; they could cheer loudly, applaud, and even go on stage to present gifts. This interactive approach filled the performances with unpredictability and surprise, and also fostered a closer emotional connection between the actors and the audience.
Furthermore, competition in the ancient entertainment industry was exceptionally fierce. Numerous performers vied for limited performance opportunities and the audience's favor, their open and covert struggles never ceasing. Some performers would elevate their status by slandering rivals and currying favor with powerful figures. Those truly talented performers, however, would stand out in this brutally competitive environment through their own abilities and reputation. Ling Yichen and Jun Moran knew that, whether in ancient or modern times, to establish oneself in the entertainment industry, one must possess outstanding professional skills and excellent moral character.
In their in-depth exploration of the ancient entertainment industry, Ling Yichen and Jun Mo Ran discovered an interesting phenomenon: the close connection between the ancient entertainment industry and literature and art. Many opera works were adapted from contemporary literary classics or folk tales. Performers vividly presented these literary works to the audience through their performances, thus promoting the dissemination and development of literature. At the same time, literati and scholars often participated in opera creation, writing scripts and composing lyrics and music for the performers, injecting new vitality and inspiration into the art form. Jun Mo Ran remarked, "This fusion of literature and art is also reflected in the modern entertainment industry, but the ancient combination was purer and more natural."
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