Beijing Opera

With a history of over 200 years, Peking (Beijing) Opera has been the most influential of all operas in China. This refined art form is a blend of singing, dancing, dialogue, action and acrobatics. There are four main roles in Peking Opera: Sheng (male), Dan (young female), Jing (painted face male) and Chou (clown, male or female). Plots are mainly based on historical events, emperors and ministries, as well as, ancient folk tales. Peking Opera is renown for its stylized movements, graceful costumes and various colorful facial make-ups.