Local Legends: 1x2

Episode 2 - Kao Ka Chinese Opera

Local Legends explores the colorful and once-famous world of kao ka, or Hokkien-style Chinese opera. Second-generation kao ka performer Bee Hua looks back on how she got into performance art, and recalls how she surpassed the hardships and struggles she encountered in the past. Kao ka scholar Percy Ng discusses what the opera is all about, saying that it was considered as one of the major forms of entertainment for the Filipino-Chinese community in the old times. Ng then talks about the once-thriving kao ka culture in the country, and shares how the interest for it has declined over the years. Lastly, Hua details the impact and importance of performing kao ka in her life, and takes pride in her dedication for the performance art.