The star who bridged two worlds

Mei's 1930 tour also played an important role in shaping the mission of the China Institute of America, which organized the trip and collaborated with Mei's team to translate many of the documents for American audiences, an early example of cultural "localization".

Nearly a century later, that goal remains central to the institute's work, says Charles A. Riley II, director of the China Institute Gallery.

"We want to teach the world about Chinese culture, especially so that children can learn the beautiful stories of Mei and his performances,"Riley says. In the long history of illustrious Broadway shows, Mei Lanfang's American debut was an unexpected smash hit that created unprecedented, wide-ranging diplomatic benefits."

By revisiting Mei's historic journey, the exhibition highlights how artistic exchange, once sparked by a traveling opera troupe, continues to shape cross-cultural dialogue today, says Qi Yonggang, the deputy director of the Chinese National Academy of Arts.

"Mei's 1930 tour raised his profile and introduced Peking Opera to American audiences. Through this exhibition, we hope to showcase China's traditional performing arts and help more local audiences appreciate the richness of our cultural heritage," Qi says. "As early as 1930, cultural exchange between China and the US was thriving. Mei's tour provides a concrete example of how such exchanges can build understanding across cultures. This process continues today."

In recent years, with the growing popularity of "China travel", many American visitors have embraced cultural experiences, such as wearing Peking Opera costumes.

"Mei's trip set a model for cultural exchanges. We also want more children to go to China, and experience and explore Peking Opera firsthand," Qi adds.