Preserving our culture | Eva Zhou | TEDxYouth@GrandviewHeights

Summary

Eva Zhou argues that preserving a culture means keeping its language and traditions alive, and that young people have an important role in doing so.

Hu Opera and Shanghainese

Zhou introduces a song from Hu Opera, performed in Shanghainese, and explains its verse about children celebrating the New Year. Hu Opera is a traditional art form originating in Shanghai, with local stories and traditions passed down through generations.

Why Preservation Matters

Hu Opera is far less familiar now than it was in her grandmother’s time. Zhou also warns that Shanghainese is at risk: many young people in Shanghai do not know how to speak it. She sees language as closely connected to cultural knowledge, identity, and a sense of belonging.

Sharing the Art

Zhou began learning Hu Opera as a child. Although some friends initially dismissed it as old-fashioned, she made it more accessible by combining traditional opera with popular music and performing at school. Interest grew among classmates and the wider community, leading to performances at public venues, including a Shanghai metro station.

She recalls being encouraged by children joining in and older audience members moved to hear familiar songs again.

Culture Across Places

Now living in Canada, where English is widely spoken, Zhou says Shanghainese connects her to both her hometown and her new home. It reminds her where she came from.

How Young People Can Help Preserve Culture

1. Embrace your origins and use your language. Take pride in where you come from, and speak your heritage language with family, friends, or others who understand it.
2. Learn about your culture. Explore its traditions, ceremonies, and art forms. Attend cultural events when possible, and ask older relatives or do research when you have questions.
3. Share it with others. Tell friends about cultural stories, show them traditional clothing, and share food or performances. These exchanges can spark interest and help keep traditions present in people’s lives.

Closing Message

Zhou concludes that culture is part of a community’s identity and should be learned, practiced, and passed between generations. She ends with another Hu Opera verse about welcoming guests and helping others.

Speakers and Sources Featured

• Eva Zhou — the sole identified speaker; she also performs excerpts from Hu Opera songs.
• Hu Opera song lyrics — excerpts performed by Zhou and explained in English.