Transformation of traditional art forms in the evolving contexts: Cantonese opera in Hong Kong as an example

Arts and artistic transmission are influenced by a variety of changing contexts, including globalization, modernization, and digitalization. Traditional cultures face a number of challenges, many of which pose a threat to cultural sustainability. This article reviews the socio-historical and cultural development of Cantonese opera in Hong Kong since the early twentieth century, and examines how the art form has evolved during that time. The author attempts to summarize the evolution of Cantonese opera in terms of the nature of the art form, the function of performances, performance practices, inheritance and transmission, and its contents. With reference to both the literature and models, the article aims to reflect on the challenges faced by both artists and audiences of Cantonese opera in Hong Kong, and discusses how this particular traditional culture can sustain itself. Findings may shed light on the preservation of traditional art forms and the extent to which their revitalization can serve to maintain cultural sustainability. Copyright © 2023 The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd.