For most people in Northwest China's Shaanxi province, Qin Opera is a daily "must", with audiences eager to witness performances at the Yisu Grand Theater, located east of the Bell Tower in Xi'an, capital of the province.

The Yisu Art Troupe, the oldest opera group still performing in China, has been performing Qin Opera since it was established in 1912.

A stage photo of Wang Baochuan,  a kind-hearted and faithful wife during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) who waited for her husband for 18 years after he left for war, dressed by Hui Minli. [Photo/Xi'an Daily]

Hui Minli, winner of the top Chinese Drama Plum Blossom Award and Magnolia Drama Award, is the president of the theater and the troupe's first female leader.

It is Hui's goal to bring Qin Opera closer to young people. Hui has introduced Qin Opera at public lectures for students at key universities in Beijing and Xi'an, sharing the beauty of Qin Opera, the entrepreneurial story of theater and the classic plays created throughout the generations.

In addition to domestic university students, overseas students are also the targets of Hui's efforts. She hopes that the ancient Qin Opera art can spread round the world.

She has invited experts and foreign students from all over the world to visit the theater to experience the unique skills and make-up process of Qin Opera and Qin Opera stories on stage.

The Shaanxi Province Qin Opera Art Protection, Inheritance and Development Regulations, which Hui participated in the drafting and revision of, came into force on Jan 1 this year, becoming the first legislation in the country to work to preserve operas.

It regulates protection, talent training, innovation and development related to Qin Opera art.