Harbin Normal University warmly welcomes UBC School of Music Opera Ensemble
On May 5, 2025, Harbin Normal University’s (HNU) Conservatory of Music hosted the UBC Opera Ensemble for an exciting cultural exchange. Backed by the Foreign Affairs Office of Heilongjiang Province and hosted by the HNU’s International Exchange Office, the event brought together students, faculty, and artists in a joyful celebration of music and friendship. Through a stunning series of performances—from the lyrical erhu solo The Sun Shines on Taxkorgan to the folk song Cui Dong Cui and the guzheng ensemble’s vibrant The Spring of the Hezhe People—Harbin students showcased the elegance, emotion, and diversity of Chinese musical heritage. Together, both sides explored the value of art education, creativity, and cultural expression. The exchange would also include a performance by the UBC Opera Ensemble of Yu Cao’s Shakespeare-inspired play, Thunderstorm.
Professor Nancy Hermiston with UBC Opera Ensemble, Dai Xunan, Director of International Exchange and Cooperation Office and delegates from Harbin Normal University
UBC’s delegation responded with heartfelt words, performances, and an outpouring of admiration for HNU’s artistry and hospitality. What began as an exchange blossomed into a genuine artistic dialogue, building lasting bonds and mutual inspiration.
UBC Opera at Harbin Normal University, China
Courtesy of Harbin Normal University
UBC Opera at Harbin Normal University, China
Courtesy of Harbin Normal University
UBC Opera at Harbin Normal University, China
Courtesy of Harbin Normal University
UBC Opera at Harbin Normal University, China
Courtesy of Harbin Normal University
UBC Opera at Harbin Normal University, China
Courtesy of Harbin Normal University
UBC Opera Dazzles in Thunderstorm
UBC Opera performed a stirring interpretation of Thunderstorm, Yu Cao’s Shakespeare-inspired masterpiece, at the Daqing Opera House at the HNU Conservatory of Music. This special production featured the Harbin Symphony Orchestra under the baton of conductor Li Yi, with musical contributions from Tang Kangnian and Pan Xinghai. The production was directed by Nancy Hermiston, with music composed by Vancouver’s own Kangnian Tang and Emily Pan. UBC Opera last performed Thunderstorm in May 2024 at the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts.
UBC Opera’s partnerships with Chinese universities continue to foster meaningful artistic exchanges and a growing interest in contemporary Chinese opera around the world.
UBC Opera in Media
These articles are available in both Chinese or English.
