"Since Meihu Opera has been listed as a national intangible cultural heritage, I feel greater responsibility to inherit and promote it," he said.

Gao Feiyuan, head of the Meihu Opera troupe at Fangcaohu Farm, said the farm has provided several training courses in recent years to cultivate professional performers. The troupe now has 24 members in different age groups, with the oldest member being 75 years old and the youngest only 10.

"The involvement of young students gives me hope for the inheritance and promotion of this traditional art form," he said.

Mao Weihua contributed to this story.