More than face-changing, Sichuan opera proves a hit with UK audiences

( chinadaily.com.cn ) Updated: 2016-02-15 21:49

Chongqing Sichuan Opera House stages a performance as part of Chinese New Year celebrations in Trafalgar Square, London, Feb 14, 2016. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

Touring players from Chongqing Sichuan Opera House staged two performances over the weekend in London, astounding audiences with lavish costumes, elaborate makeup, high-speed acrobatics and high-pitched singing in addition to the famous secret "face-changing" routine.

"When some people think of Sichuan opera, they only think of face-changing, and others even regard it a stunt show, which is not correct," Shen Tiemei, director of the Chongqing Sichuan Opera House, and an award winning actress told China Daily.

"It actually combines singing, dancing, and acting," explained Shen while pointing out the difference from western opera which focuses on singing.

Sichuan opera, known as Chuanju in Chinese, is an exquisite theatre form that dates back 300 years, and is one of the renowned opera schools of Chinese opera.

Face-changing and fire spitting are the most eye-catching artistic techniques that shape a character's personality in Sichuan opera.

In the opera house's Sunday show in London's Trafalgar Square, where the annual celebration of Chinese New Year was held, face-changing was not performed as a solo show but was part of a play.