Kelsang Danzeng- Inheritor of Monba Tibet Opera in Cona County, Shannan, Tibet

Kelsang Danzeng (格桑旦增), born in May 1970 in Cona County (错那县), Shannan (山南), Tibet, is a prominent figure in the preservation and promotion of Monba Tibetan Opera (山南门巴戏). He is the representative inheritor of this unique art form, which was included in the second batch of National-level Intangible Cultural Heritage (国家级非物质文化遗产) projects.

Background and Early Life

Kelsang Danzeng, a member of the Monba ethnic group (门巴族), began his journey in Monba Tibetan Opera at the age of 17. With the support of his family, he became determined to carry forward this ancient tradition. His passion for the art was reinforced by his belief in the importance of cultural knowledge. He often tells his son that to truly promote Monba opera beyond the mountains, one must first master the culture and knowledge that sustain it.

Professional Experience

From June 1989 to 1992, Kelsang Danzeng served as the Deputy Director of the Xian Village Committee (贤村村委会). Then, from 1993 to 2007, he became the Director of the Le Village Committee (勒村村委会), where he continued to uphold and promote Monba Tibetan Opera as a key figure in its preservation.

Contribution to Monba Tibetan Opera

Kelsang Danzeng’s ultimate goal is to document Monba Tibetan Opera through written records, allowing more people to understand and appreciate this traditional art form. He hopes to pass on the knowledge of this unique cultural heritage to future generations, ensuring that it is not only preserved but also celebrated across the country.

He envisions a future where Monba opera, like the snow lotus (雪莲花), blooms across the borders of China, spreading its distinct charm and bringing attention to the cultural richness of Tibet. Kelsang Danzeng has also expressed his desire to take on more apprentices, ensuring that the Lebu Monba (勒布门巴族) community will continue to pass down this cherished cultural art for generations to come.

Legacy and Vision

Kelsang Danzeng has dedicated his life to the continuation of Monba Tibetan Opera, and his contributions have made a lasting impact on the cultural heritage of Cona County (错那县). By training the next generation of performers and focusing on the documentation and preservation of this opera, he ensures that this tradition will remain vibrant and relevant in modern times.

As the representative inheritor of Monba Tibetan Opera, Kelsang Danzeng’s efforts to maintain and promote the art are invaluable, and his work continues to inspire many. Through his leadership and dedication, he plays a crucial role in preserving one of Tibet’s most treasured cultural expressions.