Erjiaxian Opera

Erjiaxian, also written 'liangjiaxian,' is a regional opera popular across eastern Henan, southwestern Shandong and northern Anhui, with more than three hundred years of history, evolved from folk flower-drum songs and cotton-spinning tunes.

Its lead instrument is the sihu fiddle; the name 'two-pinched strings' comes from the bow's horsehair being pinched between the four strings. The singing is delicate and lifelike, with a full set of role types, excelling at down-to-earth domestic dramas.

Inscribed in 2008 on the second national ICH list, it is an important regional opera of the central plains, carrying eastern Henan's folk music and the memory of rural life.

Erjiaxian is sustained by troupes and amateur enthusiasts in Kaifeng and nearby counties, taking the stage at temple fairs, festivals and opera showcases.