The master was able to change his face within less than a second. He did it with such slick movement that the audiences watching the opera clapped with awed and astounding excitement. With modern day acoustics, the performance became even more dramatic and entertaining. The audience just do not know and comprehend what face the performer going to change into next.
Well, that was the art of China's Szechuan Face Changing or bian lian ( 變臉) in Chinese. This art began in China 300 years ago. Performers can changed their face into different look to depict characters in Chinese opera shows. It has been very popular in the local scene especially during cultural performace or dinners attended by the Chinese community.
But for those who did not have the opportunity to watch the Szechuan bian lian so far, they can count themselves lucky as Malaysia has their very own version of bian lian which are performed widely throughout the country and to the whole world too. And it is for free. These performances are presented by a local troupe who endeared themselves as MCA Bian Lian Pte. Ltd.
Frankly, I used to follow closely on these performance with "interest" because I personally knows some of the top performers and used to give moral and spiritual support to some of them. But now, I think like many who has been concern about the standard and quality of the troupe, we just don't care anymore. These performers face changing skills are so expected that people do not bothered with what appearance they are changing into next. Except maybe the performers themselves!
People are no more excited and concerned whether this MCA Bian Lian troupe is going to close down or even taken over by corporate raiders and run by outsiders who are least concern with the survival, dignity and importance of the Chinese bian lian.
I think it's better for me to stick to the professioanlly tested and consistent Szechuan bian lian. At least I know they are putting up a show to earn a honest living for real. - Loka
