Kunqu Opera performers staged a flash mob at Terminal 2 of Shanghai Pudong International Airport on Sunday to promote a new play, drawing a crowd of curious travelers.

Two Kunqu performers entered the waiting hall as Chinese flute played, singing verses in metrical style before the whole scene unfolded.

The performers entertained travelers with three excerpts from "Six records of a Floating Life", a newly-composed play based on a book of the same name and the country's first immersive Kunqu Opera production – a modern twist to an ancient art.

"Six Records of a Floating Life" is adapted from an autobiography by Shen Fu (1763-1825) who lived in Suzhou, east China's Jiangsu Province.

The memoir contains detailed descriptions of the life in Suzhou in the early 19th Century, and offers insight into the traditions and societal issues during that era.

The play allows spectators to be involved in the show and interact with performers to better understand and appreciate life in Suzhou back in the day.

Kunqu is one of the oldest operas in China, with its large repertoire including "The Peony Pavilion", "The Peach Blossom Fan" and "Legend of the White Snake".

The art form seems to be keeping up with the times to appeal to a younger generation.

The actors of the play are younger than 30 years of age, and the use of flash mobs to pique the interest of onlookers is a refreshing addition to the ancient art.

Jessica, an American passenger, said she was amazed by the flash mob.

"Placid but full of grace is the life in ancient China," she said. "Now I am curious and cannot wait to visit Suzhou, where the story took place."

(Cover: A flash mob of Kunqu Opera "Six Records of a Floating Life" was staged at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, on September 30, 2018. /Photo via Chinanews.com)