Fighting spirit pays off

Now, Darrin is pursuing a doctoral degree at Henan University's School of Physical Education and Sport.

Besides tai chi, Darrin also learned to perform Yuju Opera, a popular local art form, which also has a large national fan base.

Yuju Opera, which originated and thrived in Central China's Henan, is among the top five traditional opera genres in China. With a history dating back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), Yuju Opera is known for its melodic singing, dazzling martial arts movements and stories, which are based on folk tales, especially those about brave heroes who are loyal, honest and patriotic.

In 2017, Darrin watched a Yuju Opera performance, Hua Mulan, for the first time after arriving in Kaifeng. The show tells the story of legendary heroine, Hua Mulan, who, when her aging father is called up to serve in the army, disguises herself as a man to fight for the country in his place.

"The story is full of drama. The singing of the performers and the live band were full of energy," recalls Darrin, who later studied Yuju Opera with veteran artist Li Shujian.

The classic piece was premiered in 1950 by famous Yuju Opera master Chang Xiangyu (1923-2004). It's one of the most well-known and popular Yuju Opera pieces among Chinese audiences. One of the verses — which asks: "Who says women are not as capable as men?" — has been loved and learned by lots of Chinese over the years. It is also Darrin's favorite line from the piece.

Li, director of Henan Yuju Opera Theater, performed for more than four decades. He is known for playing heroes, from generals battling for the country, to noble-hearted intellectuals. One of his most well-known roles is Cheng Ying of The Orphan of Zhao, which is based on the classic tragedy by Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) playwright Ji Junxiang.