A weeklong showcase of traditional Chinese opera

A series of live performances of traditional Chinese opera is being staged from Feb 3 to 10 at Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center.

Art troupes including Beijing Quju Opera Troupe, the China Pingju Opera Theatre, and Beijing Hebei Bangzi Opera Troupe, will showcase classic traditional Chinese opera pieces, and contemporary works.

One of the highlights will be the Quju Opera production, The Life of Mine, a 50-minute production directed by Bai Ailian and featuring a talented cast of young artists. The play is adapted from a novella by acclaimed writer Lao She (1899-1966), who's known for his witty and compassionate depictions of ordinary lives, particularly the urban poor. This production was adapted for smaller theater settings and premiered in 2022. With its bold, contemporary twist, the play invites modern audiences into a world that straddles tradition and innovation.

Besides live performances, audiences can also enjoy craft markets featuring various folk arts such as paper-cutting, incense-making and making zanhua, or floral headdresses.

Flash mobs and workshops will also appear at the event, bringing anticipation for the upcoming Spring Festival.