National Stadium to host new round of Peking Opera performances
By Liu Jiaxin
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02:08

Singing, dancing, painted faces and martial arts are what many people associate with Peking Opera. But this year, there is much more to it. This time it’s all about a lively combination of tradition and innovation.

Actors from Jingyu Allinclusive co. LTD, a Peking Opera troupe, talked to CGTN about their upgraded equipment and stage this year.

Peking Opera performers. /Photo courtesy of Jingyu Allinclusive

Peking Opera performers. /Photo courtesy of Jingyu Allinclusive

"We have an LED screen, more lighting, and more choreography for better stage effects. We want to move forward; to better present traditional Chinese culture with the use of modern technology," said troupe actor Tian Hao, who started training in his childhood.

"Traditional stages do not incorporate different lighting. But we've accommodated ourselves to new requirements. Hope the audience likes it," said actress Jia Jing, who’s been into Peking Opera for years.

LED screen and more lighting have been facilitated to Peking Opera shows. /Photo courtesy of Jingyu Allinclusive

LED screen and more lighting have been facilitated to Peking Opera shows. /Photo courtesy of Jingyu Allinclusive

The new team is going to perform about 800 shows at China's National Stadium, also called The Bird's Nest, over a period of a year. Each ticket costs only 80 yuan, which is less than 12 U.S. dollars.

"The Bird's Nest can not only hold sports events and pop concerts, but also quintessential cultural performances like Peking Opera. We know that there are many Peking Opera fans around the world, both among children and adults. Speaking of the price, we just hope that it's affordable and budget friendly for the public," said Hu Haibin, manager of Nestyle co. LTD.

Monkey king in Peking Opera. /Photo courtesy of Jingyu Allinclusive

Monkey king in Peking Opera. /Photo courtesy of Jingyu Allinclusive

"You will find real classics here. Many plays are well-known globally. For those who are not quite familiar with Peking Opera, you will find it very understandable and impressive," said Liu Zhen, founder of the Jingyu Allinclusive. 

He believed that Peking Opera is not too archaic to be popular. “Quite the opposite, you get it as soon as you see it.” Liu said.

The young talented performer. /Photo courtesy of Jingyu Allinclusive

The young talented performer. /Photo courtesy of Jingyu Allinclusive

Besides for impressive plays, performances by children also drew lots of attention. 

The young talented generation is inheriting a unique traditional culture that now has a wider audience than ever thanks to new innovative methods.