Shua Hai'er

Actors perform on the stage [Photo provided to shanxi.chinadaily.com.cn/datong]

Shua Hai'er, also known as Ke Ke tune, is a popular opera in Datong. Its most prominent feature is singing through the lower part of the throat.

The singing makes people feel simple and vigorous. The sounds harmoniously match the music.

The opera may be not appealing at first, but when one gets used to it, they will enjoy it.

Locals love this method of singing.

According to historical records, Shua Haier can be traced back to Kangxi and Qianlong in the Qing Dynasty(1644-1911). This method of singing became very popular in the late Qing Dynasty.

At that time, many opera troupes were established. Owners frequently held singing competitions to improve their troupe's reputation.

Now, Datong has one professional troupe and countless rural amateur troupes.