SSRScientific and Social Research2661-43322981-9946Bio-Byword Scientific Publishing Pty. Ltd.10.26689/ssr.v8i9.15784ArticleAn Investigation of Gender in the Transmission of Traditional Opera in Zhejiang: A Case Study of Wuju Opera and Yue Operahttps://artdesignp.com/journal/SSR/8/9/10.26689/ssr.v8i9.15784XuRuilin,LiShuyu2026892026-10-21Against the backdrop of ongoing efforts to safeguard intangible cultural heritage, traditional opera in Zhejiang—an important carrier of Jiangnan culture—faces multiple contemporary challenges, including talent shortage, market limitations, and innovation constraints. This study focuses on two representative Zhejiang opera genres, Yue Opera and Wuju, approaching them from a gender perspective. It investigates the historical formation of gender roles within these genres and examines gender imbalances in their contemporary transmission. Drawing on gender empowerment theory, the study analyzes the gendered characteristics in talent cultivation, repertoire creation, and performance promotion across different opera types. Finally, it proposes targeted strategies to optimize the transmission of these operas, offering practical guidance for their sustainable development in Zhejiang.Traditional opera, Gender roles, Cultural transmission, Yue opera, Wuju opera, Intangible cultural heritage

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