Peking Opera actors and actresses must meet more requirements than those active in other types of performing art. Moreover, the performance style requires audiences to use more of their own imagination based on the story background, lines, music, and the actors' interpretations. Therefore, its performers need to express emotions and plots through sophisticated body language. Peking Opera follows other traditional Chinese arts in emphasizing meaning, rather than accuracy. And when I wave a horsewhip, it means I am riding a horse,' Chao told Beijing Review. 'A desk is a desk when leaning on it and can also become a bed when lying on it. More and more young people are attracted by the charm of this traditional performing art, as they take increasing pride in traditional culture along with China's development, and have a growing sense of responsibility to inherit this performing art. However, traditional Chinese opera, including Peking Opera, is not only a thing for the elderly today. Mentioning Peking Opera, a similar image might float into most Chinese people's minds, usually that of a grandpa with a cup of tea, enjoying the relaxed pace of life while listening to the rhythm of Peking Opera.

At a deeper level, it mirrors the essence of traditional Chinese philosophy and values. It is a comprehensive performing art that rolls music, singing, dialogue, pantomime, acrobatics, and martial arts into one thespian aesthetic. Peking Opera is more than just another opera.

Yet, truthfully speaking, the word opera limits its definition. After a one-year training, his coach recommended him to participate in the tryouts for actors of Peking Opera, and ever since, wusheng has become part of Chao's life.Īt the mere mention of Peking Opera, this traditional Chinese opera with a history of over 200 years, different things spring to different minds, ranging from face makeup, dramatic costumes or unique tunes. In 2005, 11-year-old Chao was sent off to study martial arts. There are xiaosheng (younger male roles), laosheng (older male roles) and wusheng (martial arts male roles). A male role in Peking Opera is called sheng.

Peking opera show