Keeping the nandan flame alive

In Sword of the Cosmos, veteran Peking Opera actor Ni Shengchun, who specializes in laosheng (elder male roles), plays Kuang Hong, Zhao's father-in-law, who is framed for a crime and has witnessed the execution of his family. He recalls his experiences studying Peking Opera, noting that Hu is currently the only nandan artist in the troupe.

Ni, who also serves as the deputy director of the Mei Lanfang Peking Opera Troupe under the Jingju Theater Company of Beijing, recognizes the rarity and significance of Hu's artistry.

Hu's journey to becoming a leading nandan artist has been anything but conventional. Originally trained in Qinqiang Opera in his native Xi'an, Shaanxi province, he began his career at the age of 12 as a xiaosheng (young male) actor. But his path would take a different turn when he encountered Li Defu, a legendary Peking Opera artist known for his mastery of the water sleeves. Li became Hu's first mentor in Peking Opera, sparking a lifelong dedication to the art.

In 1993, while recording for a television show, Hu met Mei Baojiu. By 1998, after years of dedication and study, Hu was granted permission to study at the Mei family home. Though he did not initially receive direct mentorship, Hu immersed himself in the study of Mei style, eventually earning the recognition of Mei Baojiu, who accepted him as his disciple.