#Peking opera introduction full

Facial changes expressing sudden changes in a character's feelings are done in four ways:īlowing dust: The actor blows black dust hidden in his palm or close to his eyes, nose or beard, so that it blows back into his face. Face changing is also a special technique used to exaggerate inner feelings of characters, portray their dispositions, set off the atmosphere and improve effects. It is considered to be a stunt that can only be mastered after extensive training.

The frequent on-stage changing of masks or facial makeup (without the audience noticing) is a special technique known as changing faces.Ĭhanging faces is a difficult technique in operatic performance. Peking Opera performers mainly have two types of facial decorations: masks and facial painting. Essentially, the unique makeup allows characters on stage to reveal them voicelessly. In addition, facial painting patterns reveal information about a character, as well.

For example, a red face usually depicts heroic bravery, uprightness and loyalty a white face symbolizes a sinister, treacherous and guile character and a green face connotes surly stubbornness, impetuosity and lack of self-restraint. The paintings are representations of the characters' roles. But no matter what its origin, facial painting is worth appreciating for its artistic value. It is said that this special art derived from Chinese opera has different origins. The band usually sits on the left side of the stage. The orchestral instruments include the Erhu, Huqin, Yueqin, Sheng (reed pipe), Pipa (lute) and other instruments. One person usually plays the castanets and drum simultaneously, which conduct the entire band. The commonly used percussion instruments include castanets, drums, bells and cymbals. The former frequently accompanies peaceful scenes while the latter provides the right atmosphere for battle scenes. The Peking Opera band mainly consists of an orchestra and percussion band. Peking Opera is a harmonious combination of the Grand Opera, ballet and acrobatics, consisting of dance, dialogue, monologues, martial arts and mime. The costumes were a garish collection of sharply contrasting colors to stand out on the dim stage illuminated only by oil lamps. Since the orchestra played loudly, the performers developed a piercing style of song that could be heard by everyone. Performance In ancient times, Peking Opera was performed mostly on stage in the open air, teahouses or temple courtyards. Beijing Opera is also the reserved program for the communication between Chinese and many foreign cultures. Today, the Beijing Chang'an Opera House holds international competitions every year that attract many people from various countries. Especially as the traditional quintessence of China, Beijing Opera got great support from the government. The art of Beijing Opera was very popular at that time.Īfter the reform and opening-up policy, Beijing Opera had new development.

Furthermore, they were extremely active on the stage in Beijing,Shanghai, and so on. Every sect had its groups of actors and actresses. The symbol of this period was the emergence of lots of sects of the opera. Peking Opera underwent fast development during the reign of Emperor Qianlong and the notorious Empress Dowager Cixi under the imperial patron, eventually becoming more accessible to the common people.įrom the 1920's to the 1940's of last century was the second flourishing period of Peking Opera. It is believed that Peking Opera gradually came into being after 1790 when the famous four Anhui opera troupes came to Beijing. Its main melodies originated from Xipi and Erhuang in Anhui and Hubei respectively and, over time, techniques from many other local operas were incorporated. Peking Opera has a 200-year-long history. Opera is so popular among Chinese people, especially seniors, that even 'Peking Opera Month' has been declared. Since Peking Opera enjoys a higher reputation than other local operas, almost every province in China has more than one Peking Opera troupes.

#Peking opera introduction full

Full of Chinese cultural facts, the opera presents the audience with an encyclopedia of Chinese culture, as well as unfolding stories, beautiful paintings, exquisite costumes, graceful gestures and martial arts. With its fascinating and artistic accompanying music, singing and costumes, the Peking Opera is China's national opera.