The construction work of China's first museum on Tibetan opera has started in Lhasa, capital of Tibet Autonomous Region. The museum is expected to cost around 5.44 million RMB (around 800,000 USD). The construction work will end in the first half of 2019.
According to the region's traditional Tibetan opera troupe, the museum covers an area of 1,080 square meters, and will display the schools, the history of Tibetan opera, as well as its costumes, masks and stage properties. Through multimedia such as text, audio, photos and videos, the museum will also serve as a platform for researchers and visitors to better understand the Tibetan opera.
Tracing back to the 14th century, Tibetan opera is mainly derived from history, legend and Buddhist teachings. The president of the troupe, Panqu Wangchug, said that the museum will play an important role in boosting the global popularity, protect and develop the Tibetan opera. Tibetan opera was awarded as the national intangible cultural heritage status in 2006 and was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2009.