Peking Opera

Description: Peking opera is one of the most distinctive traditions in Chinese culture - a tradition that can seem mysterious and complex to foreign eyes. In this illustrated introduction, Xu Chengbei explains the colourful make up, intricate costumes, characters, staging, stories and music associated with Peking opera, and discusses the origins and development of this unique performance art. Peking Opera is an essential starting point for all those interested in this intriguing part of China's cultural heritage.

Contents: Foreword; 1. The birth and evolution of Peking opera; 2. The stage, props and orchestra; 3. Performing art; 4. Performers and performing schools; 5. Classic plays; 6. Modern Peking operas; 7. Conventions of Peking opera; 8. The appreciation of Chinese opera; 9. Peking opera today; Appendix: chronological table of the Chinese dynasties.

Author Biography: Xu Chengbei is a researcher in the Chinese Art Academy and a member of the Chinese Writer's Association. His research is focused on Peking opera and the urban culture of Beijing, and he has published over sixty works on these subjects. The Peking opera he wrote for the actress Li Shji won the first Wenhua Award.