Sophia Zhai (翟舒萱): Bridging Tradition and Modernity in Chinese Opera
（Sophia Zhai 翟舒萱）
Born into a family deeply rooted in the traditions of Chinese opera, young Sophia Zhai has shown remarkable talent in this ancient art form from an early age.
Sophia Zhai performs Ode to Pear Blossoms《梨花颂》
With a clear and sweet voice, she has captivated audiences through her passionate performances of classic opera pieces. Sophia’s affinity for opera was apparent even as a child, and she took the stage with impressive confidence, proving her abilities at just nine years old.
Sohpia Zhai performs Mu Guiying Takes Command《穆桂英挂帅》at International Art Festival in China 2024
In 2012, at a tender age, Sophia emerged as the champion in the children’s division of the prestigious “Exceptional Music, Creating Geniuses” competition.
Sophia Zhai in Peking Opera costume Drunken Concubine 《贵妃醉酒》
Her natural talent and dedication to opera were further validated in 2023, when she won the global gold medal in the vocal category of the “Super Baby” competition, organized by China Central Television.
Sophia Zhai won the global gold medal in the vocal category of the “Super Baby” competition
During this competition, she performed iconic pieces such as the Beijing opera classics Ode to Pear Blossoms and Drunken Concubine, as well as the Yu opera favorite Hua Mulan.
Her performances not only demonstrated technical mastery but also a deep emotional connection to the material, which is rare for someone of her age.
Sophia Zhai performs Peking Opera Drunken Concubine 《贵妃醉酒》
Chinese opera, with its rich history and regional variations, is one of the most respected forms of traditional Chinese performing arts. It encompasses various regional forms such as Beijing opera (Peking opera), Yu opera, and Kunqu opera, each known for its unique melodies, elaborate costumes, and expressive performances.
Sophia Zhai performs at Consulate General Of China in New York
Beijing opera, in particular, is renowned for combining music, vocal performance, mime, dance, and acrobatics, and it demands a high level of skill from performers. Sophia’s ability to deliver these complex performances at such a young age is a testament to her talent and discipline.
Sophia Zhai performs Ode to Pear Blossoms《梨花颂》
Not limited to traditional opera, Sophia is also a gifted singer of modern music. Her renditions of popular songs like Girls On Fire and You Raise Me Up show her versatility and broaden her appeal to a wider audience.
Sophia Zhai performs Yu Opera Hua Mulan 《花木兰》
Sophia’s most notable public performances include a breathtaking rendition of Drunken Concubine at the 2023 American Youth Chinese New Year Gala held in New Jersey’s American Dream Mall, and a stunning performance of Ode to Pear Blossoms at the 2023 Chinese New Year Gala in New York.
Sophia Zhai performs at Lunar New Year event
Her pure voice, precise enunciation, and commanding stage presence left audiences in awe and earned her praise as a young talent with the potential to become one of the brightest stars on the opera stage.
Sophia Zhai won First Runner-up at 2021 East Coast USA Christmas Spectacular Divional
Sophia Zhai’s journey is just beginning, but her passion for Chinese opera and her impressive achievements at such a young age signal a bright future. As she continues to hone her craft, it is clear that Sophia is not only preserving the heritage of traditional Chinese opera but also bringing it to new audiences around the world.
Sophia Zhai and her mother Jie Cui who is an art director
