A Russian student at Donghua University (DHU), who goes by her Chinese name Yalan, served as a volunteer interpreter during a Kunqu Opera experience session at the Gubei Civic Center in Shanghai on September 8.

The Kunqu experience was part of the Shanghai-Jiangsu Tour program titled “Explore People-Centered Cities: China’s Governance, Global Engagement,” which brought together ambassadors and diplomats from multiple countries.

“It was my first time serving as a volunteer interpreter at an event of this scale. To be honest, I felt really nervous at the beginning, but everything went much more smoothly than I expected,” said Yalan.

Yalan (second from right)

“I knew it was a great responsibility”

During the event, Yalan provided interpretation services for international guests, explaining Kunqu-related concepts such as the “orchid finger gesture” and “water sleeve techniques.”

“I knew it was a great responsibility, so I was very nervous,” she said. “Fortunately, I met very supportive teachers and staff members. Their kindness helped me gradually relax, and everything went smoothly.”

“I hope to continue volunteering in similar events”

Speaking about the experience, Yalan said that interpreting was not simply about converting words from one language into another. It was also about helping people better understand different cultures. By introducing Kunqu Opera to guests in a language they could follow, she saw how interpretation could help overcome communication barriers and bring people from different cultures closer together.

“As a volunteer, what I did may have been a small thing. But if it helps more people learn about Chinese culture and understand China better, then it is meaningful,” she said.

Looking ahead, Yalan hopes to continue volunteering in similar events and use her language skills to help people from different cultural backgrounds connect.

Yalan (far right)

Through her work as a volunteer interpreter, Yalan found a different way to connect people from different cultural backgrounds. Her story offers a glimpse into cross-cultural exchange in action.

Source: Donghua University