Principal artists Yu Kuizhi and Li Shengsu will lead an ensemble of outstanding Peking Opera performers in presenting three Peking Opera masterpieces.  A new historical Peking Opera Cession for Consolidation of the Song Regime portrays how the King of Wuyue submits his territory to the Song dynasty for the greater welfare of his people.  The impressive cast will also perform the classic tales from Romance of the Three Kingdoms, showcasing the enduring beauty of the vocal style.  The widely beloved classic The Legend of the White Snake masterfully balances singing and acting as well as civil and martial elements, making for a captivating experience for the audience.

20/6 (FRI) 7:30pm
A New Historical Peking Opera – Cession for Consolidation of the Song Regime

Main Cast : Yu Kuizhi, Li Shengsu, Wang Yue, Du Zhe, Hu Bin, Chu Fengyi, Chen Xuzhi, Wang Jue, Ma Xiangfei, et al.

The story takes place during the early Northern Song dynasty when the Latter Tang and Song regimes are contending for land.  The King of Wuyue, Qian Chu, faces a pivotal decision that will shape the destiny of his realm and people.

Two years in the making, this innovative historical drama presented by the China National Peking Opera Company vividly recreates the late Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period.  With a complete ensemble of traditional role types, the opera piece portrays Qian Chu’s deference to historical tides and his allegiance to rightful rule.  This epic masterpiece features Peking Opera maestros Yu Kuizhi and Li Shengsu as King Qian Chu and his consort, Lady Sun Taizhen, delivering scene after scene of nuanced emotional performances.  The grand finale is marked by a monumental painting of China’s breathtaking landscape, kept intact through the lofty vision of a wise king who valued his people, pursued peace and stability — a vivid demonstration of the communal spirit pertaining to the Chinese national identity.
 

21/6 (SAT) 7:30pm
A Meeting of Heroes, Invoking the East Wind and The Huarong Pass

Main Cast : Yu Kuizhi, Du Zhe, Hu Bin, Wang Yue, Guo Zhufeng, Wang Jue, Ma Xiangfei, Guo Xiaolei, Wei Jiaqing, et al.

In the world of Peking Opera, there is a saying that ‘there are no minor roles in the epic episodes of A Meeting of Heroes, Invoking the East Wind and The Huarong Pass.’  Drawn from Romance of the Three Kingdoms — a timeless classic known to all, these episodes bring to life the legendary Battle of Red Cliff.

Featuring a rich cast of historical figures, the stage teems with unforgettable personalities — from the noble elder statesman Lu Su, the brilliant strategist Zhuge Liang and the proud young general Zhou Yu to the formidable warlord Cao Cao, the fearless Zhao Yun and the awe-inspiring Guan Yu.  Their thrilling clash of wits unfolds with dramatic intensity, showcasing iconic episodes that promise an unmissable theatrical feast of centuries-old artistry.
 

22/6 (SUN) 7:30pm
The Legend of the White Snake

Main Cast : Li Shengsu / Zhu Hong (as Bai Suzhen), Guo Zhufeng, Dai Zhongyu, Hu Bin, Wang Jue, Jiang Qize, Zheng Gaolu, Wei Pengyu, Wang Xuesong, et al.
The role of Bai Suzhen will be co-played by Li Shengsu and Zhu Hong. Zhu Hong will perform in Stealing the Herb, Demanding the Release of Her Husband, and Fighting on the Water.

The Peking Opera The Legend of the White Snake, written by famous playwright Tian Han and originally directed by renowned Chinese opera director Li Zigui, has been refined on stage for over 60 years.  It has become an essential repertoire for generations of dan (female) role performers.  Li Shengsu, a renowned exponent of the Mei (Lanfang) School, has preserved and passed down the artistry to rising star Zhu Hong.  Together, they will share the lead role as Bai Suzhen (Lady White Snake) in this restaged repertoire, perfectly embodying the character’s unwavering devotion to her forbidden mortal love.

In At the Lake, Bai Suzhen share an idyllic moment with Xu Xian as love blooms during a boat trip.  Fighting on the Water is a stunning spectacle as numerous flags are wavered to simulate the water that floods the Jinshan Temple.  On Broken Bridge brings out Bai’s woes and heartbreak over her husband’s distrust of her love, immersing the audience in a breathtaking dreamscape of scenic West Lake.