Not The Sideburns I Know Chapter 37

In the hundred years since the Anhui troupe came to Beijing, Kunqu opera has not been as popular as before. However, as the imperial capital of the previous dynasty, Beiping has left behind a large number of scholars who love elegance and refinement. They still admire Kunqu opera very much. They often hold a gathering and invite a famous actor who can sing Kunqu opera. A group of scholars listen to the opera in the pavilions and waterside pavilions while reciting poems, painting, drinking tea and playing the piano. In the past, when Yuan Xiaodi, the leader of the Kunqu opera world, was still there, Yuan Xiaodi was the darling of the literati. Because he was mature and steady, had read a little, could write and paint, and spoke appropriately. The literati's emphasis was naturally different from that of the common people. They valued these knowledge and qualities more than appearance and singing. But now Yuan Xiaodi is determined to get rid of his identity as an actor, and no longer attends such occasions. The title of darling has fallen to Ervin. Ervin was too young and had never been to school, but he was clever and intelligent, and could recite poems and songs by heart. He also had some unique ideas and opinions, which made him stand out among the literati. Back then, he met his imperial lyricist Du Qigongzi at Du Mingrong's literary and artistic club.

That day Ervin went to Dong Hanlin's house to sing a party. After three rounds of singing, he accompanied them to drink tea. The literati talked about it and said that there were no good Kunqu opera actors in the capital now. Ervin might be the youngest good Kunqu actor. If we count back, apart from Yuan Xiaodi, only the actress Yao Xifu was good.

Ervin laughed when he heard it: "Yao Xifu is my master! She taught me Kunqu Opera."

Everyone praised the saying that a good teacher produces good students, and said: "So, Boss Yuan is Boss Shang's uncle!"

Ervin was stunned, and then he understood immediately. He had studied opera with Yao Xifu for two years, but he didn't know that Yao Xifu was Yuan Xiaodi's junior sister, and he and Yuan Xiaodi had this connection!