Chinese performers act as Emperor Suiyang and Empress Xiao in the opera "River of Life" at the Leman Theater in Geneva on June 30, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

Organized by the Jiangsu Provincial International Culture Association, the opera "River of Life" themed on the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal started its European tour at the Leman Theater in Geneva on June 30.

The Grand Canal was constructed during the reign of Emperor Suiyang at Sui Dynasty (AD 581-618). As an artery connecting northern and southern parts of China, it has contributed to the prosperity of the nation throughout history.

Based on Emperor Suiyang's initiative to have the historic canal built and the alternation of the Sui Dynasty to the Tang Dynasty (AD618-907), the opera reflects the importance of the Grand Canal as the "river of life" for the Chinese society while portraying the political idea that "The water that floats the boat is the same that can swallow it up".

As part of the "Experience China-- Jiangsu culture in Europe", the opera will be staged in Switzerland, Belgium and Italy for anniversary events of China-EU and China-Italy diplomatic relations and Expo Milano 2015 activities. It is also part of China's celebration activities for the 70th anniversary of the United Nations.

Chinese actors perform opera "River of Life" at the Leman Theater in Geneva on June 30, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

Organizers celebrate the successful performance of opera "River of Life" at the Leman Theater in Geneva on June 30, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]