A new Cantonese opera, "Ancient Tune of Guangling", will premiere in September as the finale of the 14th Chinese Opera Festival, bringing the tragic story of Wei-Jin scholar Ji Kang to the stage.

Presented as part of the Chinese Culture Festival 2026, the production will run from September 11 to 13 at Sha Tin Town Hall. Veteran performers will share the stage with a new generation of Cantonese opera artists.

Set during the political turmoil of the late Cao Wei dynasty, the opera follows Ji Kang as he remains true to his principles despite political pressure, ultimately facing execution after being falsely accused.

Written by poet Woo Kwok-yin and directed by veteran practitioner Leung Wai-hong, the production combines traditional "bang-huang" melodies and "qupai" tunes with contemporary staging and lighting, offering a fresh interpretation of a timeless story while celebrating Cantonese opera heritage.