Beijing Classic Opera Excerpts Show: “The Drunken Concubine,” “At the Crossroads,” “Farewell My Concubine”
Experience the quintessence of Chinese culture on your Beijing tour—a must not to be missed!
Nestled just beside Qianmen Street lies Tianleyuan Grand Theatre, a legendary Peking Opera venue with over two centuries of history.
The architectural rendering of Tianleyuan Grand Theatre is AI-generated for reference only.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the ultimate charm of Peking Opera within this authentically vintage Theatre!
We proudly present a curated selection of classic excerpts, showcasing the splendor, thrill, deep emotion, and wit of Peking Opera all in one sitting.
Program Introduction:
“The Drunken Concubine”
Peerless Elegance: Witness the captivating beauty of Yang Yuhuan in her intoxicated grace! Opulent court attire, exquisite movements, and mellifluous vocals embody the Tang Dynasty concubine’s blend of regal dignity and hidden melancholy. A visual feast!
Cultural Essence: Adapted from the Qing Dynasty court play “The Drunken Concubine,” this piece portrays Yang Yuhuan’s lovesick state after being neglected by Emperor Tang Minghuang. Mei Lanfang’s revolutionary choreography defined the elegant “Mei School” style.
Classic Techniques:
- “Luocai”: A movement where the concubine lowers her body to smell a flower, demonstrating core strength and balance while revealing complex psychology.
- Vocal Style: The aria “The Moon Rises Over the Sea” utilizes the Siping tune, with melodies as fluid as pearls on a jade plate, capturing the concubine’s emotional journey from coquetry to disillusionment.
“At the Crossroads”
Heart-Stopping Darkness: Hold your breath as two masters engage in a gripping fight scene in pitch-black darkness! A breathtaking blend of suspense, humor, and martial prowess.
Acrobatic Brilliance:
- Combat in the Dark: Actions like a blade grazing the face or hiding under tables rely on the actors’ precise coordination, where a millimeter’s error could mean disaster.
- Comic Relief: Liu Lihua’s “Chou” role uses exaggerated steps and comical expressions to ease the tension, embodying the art of balancing action with wit.
“Farewell My Concubine”
Epic Tragedy: Witness the poignant farewell between Xiang Yu and Consort Yu! The hero’s despair and the concubine’s poignant sword dance resonate deep within the soul.
Historical Context: Drawn from the Battle of Gaixia during the Chu-Han Contention, this masterpiece of the Mei School epitomizes the synthesis of singing, acting, and martial arts in Peking Opera.
Artistic Highlights:
- Consort Yu’s Sword Dance: Graceful movements with dual swords symbolize the Eastern aesthetic of “softness within strength.”
- Vocal Design: The aria “Advising the King” is a soul-stirring piece hailed as the “Oriental Opera Aria.”
Venue:
Located on Xianyukou Street, Qianmen, Tianleyuan Grand Theatre has been a cultural landmark since 1785. It witnessed Mei Lanfang’s debut at 17, launching his legacy, and saw masters like Cheng Yanqiu, Han Shichang, and Xin Fengxia rise to fame. The first all-female Peking Opera troupe in modern China was also established here.
Whether you’re a first-time explorer or an international traveler, Tianleyuan offers an immersive experience into the vibrant soul of Peking Opera.
Step into the world of the characters with professional costume and makeup services, available for a limited time during intermissions, reservations required. Capture your transformation with exclusive photoshoots!
Transportation:
- Subway: Take Line 2 to Qianmen Station, Exit B, walk south 400 meters.
- Bus: Take routes 2, 5, 8, 20, 22, or 48 to Dashilan Station, cross the street.
- Driving: Navigate to “Qianmen Street Underground Parking” (North Qianmen East Road, right of Liulaogen Stage). Proceed straight to the parking area near Bianyifang Roast Duck Restaurant. Exit and turn right to reach Tianleyuan Grand Theater.
- Taxi: Set “Tianleyuan Grand Theatre” as your destination. Disembark at the traffic light opposite Bianyifang, cross the street, and find the Theatre south of the restaurant.
Reminders:
- Plan your visit in advance to ensure a smooth experience.
- In case of event postponement or cancellation due to force majeure, ticket processing will follow official announcements. Additional costs incurred are your responsibility.
- Tickets are time-sensitive and subject to availability. Final confirmation will be provided via customer service email. If unable to fulfill your order, Ticketing Express guarantees a full refund.
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