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东西问丨沈国明:马来西亚华文戏剧如何成为支援抗战的有力武器?
Zhong Guo Xin Wen Wang·2025-08-24 11:51

Core Viewpoint - The development of the Chinese-language theater movement in Malaya during the Anti-Japanese War served as a significant support mechanism for the war effort, leaving a lasting impact on the evolution of Chinese-language drama and literature in Malaysia [3][4]. Group 1: Historical Context and Development - The Chinese-language theater movement in Malaya emerged in tandem with modern Chinese history and the development of Chinese theater, gaining momentum particularly after the September 18 Incident in 1931 and the July 7 Incident in 1937 [5]. - By the late 1930s, the Wuhan Choir toured Malaya, performing over 130 shows and raising more than 10 million yuan in support of the anti-Japanese cause, highlighting the popularity and impact of theatrical performances among the Chinese community [4][5]. - The movement saw the establishment of over 2,000 theater groups across Malaya, with performances reaching grassroots levels, indicating a widespread engagement with the art form [5]. Group 2: Role in Anti-Japanese Efforts - The theater movement played a crucial role in mobilizing the Chinese community in Malaya to support the anti-Japanese war, as many individuals found theater to be a more accessible medium for understanding current events compared to newspapers [7][8]. - The performances not only raised funds for the war effort but also served to awaken the consciousness of the Chinese community regarding the ongoing conflict, with many individuals participating in the war effort as a result of the movement's influence [8][9]. Group 3: Long-term Impact on Malaysian Chinese Theater - The legacy of the Malayan Chinese theater movement is evident in the establishment of Chinese theater troupes by British colonial authorities post-World War II, reflecting the popularity of the art form [9]. - The movement contributed to the development of a new generation of theater practitioners and theorists, significantly influencing the trajectory of Chinese-language theater and literature in Malaysia for decades to come [11][13].