Hey there! Have you ever heard of Peking Opera? It’s a magical form of theater from the Chinese mainland that combines music, dance, and stunning costumes! 🌟
Recently, a special performance was held at the Chang’an Grand Theater in Beijing to celebrate the 125th anniversary of a legendary master named Xun Huisheng. Let’s dive into this captivating world together! 🎉
Who Was Xun Huisheng?
Xun Huisheng (1900–1968) was one of the “Four Great Dan” of Peking Opera. In Peking Opera, a “Dan” refers to a male performer who plays female roles. Xun was famous for portraying lively and young female characters with grace and emotion. His unique style became known as the Xun School. 🌺
The Magic of Hong Niang
One of the highlight performances was “Hong Niang” (which means “The Matchmaker”). This story comes from a famous Chinese play called “The Story of the Western Wing“, written by Wang Shifu during the Yuan Dynasty. 📖
The tale is set in the Tang Dynasty and follows a scholar named Zhang Gong who is traveling to take an important exam. Along the way, he meets Cui Yingying, the daughter of a high official. They fall in love ❤️, but need help to be together. That’s where Hong Niang, the clever and brave matchmaker, steps in! She secretly helps them, and even stands up to those who oppose their love. Isn’t that inspiring? 😊
Behind the Scenes 🎬
Before the curtains rise, there’s so much excitement backstage! Performers apply intricate makeup 🎨, adjust their colorful costumes 👘, and prepare props. Every detail matters to bring the story to life for the audience.
Why Peking Opera Is Awesome
Peking Opera isn’t just about singing. It’s a mix of art forms that tell stories through expressive gestures, music, and visual splendor. The Xun School in particular is known for its beautiful melodies and emotional depth. It’s like watching a live-action fairy tale! ✨
So next time you have a chance, why not explore more about Peking Opera? You might just discover a new favorite story or character! 🤩
Reference(s):
In pics: A glimpse of Hong Niang celebrating Xun Huisheng's legacy
cgtn.com
