Beijing Opera in pictures
Introduction to Peking Opera
Peking Opera is a symbol of traditional Chinese culture. An art that has been perfected over the centuries throughout China and which reaches us today in the Peking style. The simplicity of the stage with few sets contrasts with the bright colors of the costumes, the fascinating makeup and masks, and above all the talent of the actors leaves us speechless. Peking opera combines sung opera, dances and acrobatics, not to mention all the symbolic gestures, the mimes so particular to this art. The actors are all great athletes, their theatrical performances require hours of daily exercise and most likely a life dedicated to opera. In the past, this profession required a very demanding 7-year training starting in childhood. The Cultural Revolution suppressed traditional opera and favored revolutionary opera. It is only in the last ten years that we have been able to easily rediscover this art in the capital. To discover the Peking Opera, we recommend small theaters such as:
Huguang Guild Theater (湖广会馆)
One of the oldest theaters in Beijing, built in 1759, frequented by high dignitaries of the Qing dynasty, today classified as a historical monument of the city of Beijing. It was renovated for 10 years, on the original model. It is also a museum.
How to get there?
Hufangqiao 虎坊桥 Subway, Southwest District of Tian An’menPerformance times: 6:30pm – 8pm, duration 1h20min, ticket from 180 yuan (25 euros)You can book your tickets online on their website: http://www.huguangguildhall.com/
LaoShe Tea house
The choice of shows is more diverse with, among others, traditional music concert, Chinese shadow show, acrobatics, … The decor is inspired by the play The Tea House written by the famous author Lao She. You can enjoy high quality tea accompanied by delicious traditional pastries. And it is also a restaurant.
How to get there?
Qianmen Subway Southwest District of Tian An’menDaytime and Evening ShowsYou can book your tickets online at this site: http://www.theatrebeijing.com/theatres/lao_she_teahouse