The Classical Myth "The Legend of the White Snake" Rekindles Popularity

In the long river of Chinese culture, ancient myths are like brilliant stars illuminating the spiritual firmament of the Chinese nation. As one of these shining gems, "The Legend of the White Snake," after being polished by a thousand years of history, shines even brighter. In 2025, the Year of the Snake, this legend has experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity, sweeping across various artistic fields from the Spring Festival Gala to dramas and films, becoming a cultural focus adored by all.

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On this year's Spring Festival Gala stage, the skit "Borrowing an Umbrella" revolved around the classic scene of "Meeting under the Broken Bridge" from "The Legend of the White Snake," ingeniously blending Peking Opera, Cantonese Opera, Sichuan Opera, and Yue Opera. The actors' splendid performances vividly depicted the shyness and excitement during Bai Niangzi and Xu Xian's first encounter, as well as subsequent misunderstandings and resolutions, immersing both live and television audiences who applauded thunderously. This program not only showcased the romance and complexity of "The Legend of the White Snake" but also displayed the charm of traditional Chinese opera culture, arousing profound interest and reverence for traditional culture.

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In the realm of drama, "The Legend of the White Snake" continues to be innovatively performed. Various operas have launched their own versions, from the elegant and delicate Kunqu Opera's "Leifeng Pagoda" to the passionate and grand Peking Opera's "The Legend of the White Snake," and the gentle and beautiful Yue Opera's "The Legend of the White Snake." Each performance is packed with audiences. Actors, through their superb singing skills and meticulous acting, portray characters such as Bai Niangzi's deep affection, Xu Xian's kindness, and Fahai's stubbornness so vividly that viewers feel the unique charm of "The Legend of the White Snake" in the world of opera, infusing new vitality into the inheritance and development of traditional culture. 

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In film and television, "The Legend of the White Snake" is equally favored. Whether it's classic remakes or entirely new interpretations, they attract significant attention. New adaptations retain the essence of the original story while utilizing advanced special effects technology to present the magical spells of Bai and Qing snakes, the magnificent scenes of flooding Gold Mountain, and other elements more shockingly and realistically, offering viewers a brand-new visual experience. Moreover, in-depth exploration of character emotions and innovative plot adaptations allow "The Legend of the White Snake" to rejuvenate in the new era, resonating strongly with audiences and sparking heated discussions.

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Furthermore, the set of stamps titled "The Romance of the White Snake: Past and Present" issued by China Post has become a darling in the world of collectibles. These exquisitely designed stamps feature detailed depictions of classic scenes from "The Legend of the White Snake," such as "Meeting at the Broken Bridge," "Stealing Grass from Kunlun," "Flooding Gold Mountain," and "Rescuing Mother from the Pagoda." Not only do these stamps include beautiful illustrations, but they are also paired with exquisite poetry, presenting the story in a unique artistic form that captivates collectors. Numerous enthusiasts and collectors vie for them, keeping the trend high. These stamps are not just philatelic items; they are artworks carrying Chinese traditional culture, allowing people to appreciate the charm of "The Legend of the White Snake" and the profundity of Chinese culture during collection.

As an ancient civilization, China boasts countless touching myths and legends. "The Legend of the White Snake" endures through time due to its embodiment of human goodness, unwavering love, and pursuit of freedom and happiness, appealing to people of all ages. In this Year of the Snake, the resurgence of "The Legend of the White Snake" is not merely a cultural phenomenon but also a splendid return of traditional culture in the new era, showcasing the enduring power and timeless allure of traditional culture and inspiring us to continuously inherit and promote the excellent traditional culture of the Chinese nation.