A Peking Opera actor wearing makeup. [Photo/chinaqw.com]

Lord Mayor Conception said: "This will be a unique opportunity in Liverpool to see the National Peking Opera Company. We are grateful Liverpool for chosen as the first city outside of London for the performances."

The Lord Mayor reminded the guests that Liverpool's links with China go back to before 1834, with the friendship continuing with the city's close links with its sister city of Shanghai.

Kevin Zhang, director of Sinolink, which has arranged the tour, said: "The opera company is delighted to be performing in Liverpool, a city famed for its culture and history."

The rarely seen spectacular Warrior Women of Yang is a story of grief, courage, patriotism and family loyalty. A cast of over fifty will mesmerize the audience with music, song, mime, exquisite costumes and painted faces whilst amazing the audience with stage combat and acrobatics.

Farewell My Concubine is a renowned classical piece, a beautiful and harrowing story of political unrest, love, sacrifice and honour. Audiences are entranced by what is an immense love story and the consequences of lost battles and pride.