About Beijing Opera

Articles by Ghaffar Pourazar from China Daily:

1. Beijing Opera Music
2. The Four Character Types
3. Not like it Used to Be
4. Accidents Do Happen
5. Starving for Their Art

Each of these articles is available in PDF format.

A General Introduction to Beijing Opera

Beijing Opera (a.k.a. Peking Opera) has existed for over 200 years. It is widely regarded as the highest expression of Chinese culture and it has deeply influenced the hearts of the Chinese people. It is said that there are as many kinds of Chinese Opera as there are dialects, and Beijing Opera absorbed music and arias from many other opera forms and musical arts in China. It finally emerged as the national standard. At its peak of popularity it was favored by people from all levels of society, from high-ranking government officials to common laborers. The repertoire contains thousands of pieces, covering virtually the entire history and literature of China.

In ancient times Beijing Opera was performed mostly on open-air stages in markets, streets, temple courtyards and teahouses. The orchestra had to play loudly and the performers developed a piercing style of singing in order to be heard over the crowds. The costumes were a garish collection of sharply contrasting colors because the stages were dim and lit only by oil lamps.

Relying on only minimal sets, the Beijing Opera stage has no limits in time or space—using costume, makeup, and pantomime it becomes the setting for action that ranges from the highest heavens to realms under the ocean. Using the conventions of pantomime, footwork and physical gestures portray actions such as opening a door, climbing a hillor rowing a boat.

The elaborate face painting in Beijing Opera is an art unto itself. Each painted mask is a representation of particular qualities of character. For example, a red face depicts the character's bravery, uprightness and loyalty. The pattern of the face also reveals information about the role, so each unique face allows the character to reveal their personality before they utter even a word.

The costumes in Beijing Opera impress the audience with their bright colors and magnificent embroidery. Their style is generally derived from the fashion of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Particular colors are indicative of different social status. Elaborate headdresses, jeweled girdles and hair ornaments enhance the visual display.

During the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976) Beijing Opera suffered along with the other traditional arts of China. All traditional pieces reflecting the old society were banned from performance and modern plays with revolutionary themes were performed in Beijing Opera style. Traditional Beijing Opera was revived in 1978, but with modern competition from other forms of entertainment, and a younger generation that grew up without any exposure to it, Beijing Opera has struggled to maintain its audience in China.

Nevertheless, young people are still entering the National Academy of Beijing Opera and dedicating their lives to the rigorous training that every performer must undergo to master the many skills that make up this art. Ghaffar Pourazar and the International Monkey King Troupe have devoted themselves to making modern audiences aware of just how entertaining and exciting a night at the Beijing Opera can be.

More details about the history, artistry and characters of Beijing Opera are available in our curriculum on the Background Information about Beijing Opera.