Beijing Opera (Peking Opera)
Historical Origin
Beijing Opera, also known as Peking Opera (京剧, Jīngjù), is the most dominant form of Chinese opera, combining music, vocal performance, mime, dance, and acrobatics. It arose in Beijing in the mid-Qing dynasty (1644–1912) and became fully developed and recognized by the mid-19th century.
Appreciative Value
Unique Artistic Forms
Singing: Beijing Opera features a diverse array of singing styles. Performers use high-pitched, clear, and powerful vocals to convey a wide spectrum of emotions and portray various characters. For instance, the “xipi” and “erhuang” melodies are fundamental, each with its own unique characteristics. The singing can range from slow and melodious to express sadness to fast-paced and energetic to depict excitement.
Acting: Acting in Beijing Opera is highly stylized. Actors employ exaggerated gestures, facial expressions, and postures to tell stories and vividly depict a variety of characters, from noble emperors to brave warriors and graceful ladies. Even a simple flick of a sleeve can convey complex emotions such as anger, disappointment, or elegance.
Acrobatics and Fighting: Beijing Opera often incorporates acrobatic and martial arts elements. These captivating displays of physical prowess enhance the visual spectacle. Actors execute precise flips, jumps, and sword-fighting sequences, showcasing their athleticism and intensifying the drama of the performance.
Cultural Representation
Beijing Opera is a treasure trove of Chinese culture, reflecting traditional values, historical events, and folk tales. Through its performances, audiences can gain insights into Chinese history, such as stories from the Three Kingdoms period or legends of ancient heroes. The elaborate costumes, meticulously designed to reflect the social status and personality of each character, also showcase traditional Chinese textile and embroidery techniques.
Where to Experience Beijing Opera
National Centre for the Performing Arts: This iconic venue in Beijing regularly presents top-tier Beijing Opera productions. Its state-of-the-art facilities, including excellent acoustics and spacious auditoriums, provide a world-class experience. The National Centre frequently hosts renowned Beijing Opera troupes from across China, showcasing both classic and newly adapted works. Programs often include detailed introductions in multiple languages to help international visitors better understand the plots and appreciate the artistry of Beijing Opera.
Chang’an Grand Theatre: The Chang’an Grand Theatre is a long-standing and esteemed Beijing Opera venue in Beijing, known for its commitment to promoting traditional Chinese opera. It offers a more traditional and intimate setting for enjoying Beijing Opera, where audiences can witness performances by experienced actors and actresses. The theater also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase Beijing Opera souvenirs, such as masks, CDs, and books, to deepen their understanding and appreciation of this art form.
Liyuan Theatre: Located in the Qianmen area, Liyuan Theatre is dedicated to presenting Beijing Opera performances tailored to tourists. The theater schedules regular shows, often with simplified storylines to enhance comprehension for international audiences. In addition to the performances, Liyuan Theatre sometimes offers pre-show introductions to Beijing Opera fundamentals, such as makeup, costumes, and acting styles. This makes it an ideal venue for first-time viewers to experience and appreciate Beijing Opera.
Traditional Teahouses: Traditional teahouses in Beijing, particularly in areas like Nanluoguxiang, also offer Beijing Opera performances. These teahouses provide a more relaxed and immersive way to experience Beijing Opera. Guests can enjoy fragrant Chinese tea while watching actors perform on a small stage. The cozy ambiance, combined with the melodious singing and expressive acting, allows visitors to fully appreciate the charm of Beijing Opera in a traditional and leisurely setting.