Join us in celebrating the 5th anniversary of a cultural gem in the heart of Hong Kong, where tradition meets innovation at the Xiqu Centre. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of Peking Opera as the renowned China National Peking Opera Company presents "Birthday Celebration by Five Daughters".
Experience the rich tapestry of Chinese performing arts as five talented daughters take the stage in a dazzling display of talent and artistry. From intricate costumes to elaborate makeup, every detail is a testament to the centuries-old tradition of Peking Opera.
Step into the world of ancient China as the performers bring to life classic tales of love, loyalty, and heroism. Let the haunting melodies of traditional Chinese music transport you to a bygone era, where honor and duty were paramount.
The Xiqu Centre, a modern architectural marvel inspired by traditional Chinese lanterns, provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of culture and heritage. Designed to showcase the best of Chinese opera, the Centre is a hub of artistic excellence, where old meets new in a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.
As you witness the grace and skill of the performers, you'll be swept away by the beauty and complexity of Peking Opera. From the acrobatic leaps of the warriors to the delicate movements of the maidens, every gesture is laden with meaning and symbolism, creating a visual feast for the senses.
Don't miss this rare opportunity to witness the magic of Peking Opera at its finest, performed by the esteemed China National Peking Opera Company. Whether you're a seasoned opera aficionado or a newcomer to the art form, this performance promises to captivate and enchant audiences of all ages.
Celebrate the 5th anniversary of the Xiqu Centre in style, surrounded by the opulence and grandeur of Chinese opera. Let the timeless stories and vibrant performances transport you to a world of beauty and wonder, where the past comes alive in a dazzling display of talent and artistry.
Book your tickets now and be part of this unforgettable celebration of culture, tradition, and art at the Xiqu Centre. Experience the magic of Peking Opera like never before and create memories that will last a lifetime.
China National Peking Opera Company: Birthday Celebration by Five Daughters (Peking Opera)
Date: 27 - 28 Janurary 2024
Time: 3:00pm
Address: Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre, West Kowloon Cultural District
Ticket price: $380、$280、$200 (Marked Seat)
China National Peking Opera Company’s adaption of Yue opera classic Birthday Celebration by Five Daughters, created for the debut of its newly established Youth Troupe, is a grand showcase of the impressive skill and versatility of the company’s young performers.
In 2022, China National Peking Opera Company founded its Youth Troupe as a way to cultivate new generations of xiqu talent. As the year also marked the 40th anniversary of the premiere of popular Yue opera Birthday Celebration by Five Daughters, the company decided to adapt it into a new Peking opera production. The creative team, led by renowned director Yang Xiaoqing, elevated the work’s depth and literary quality by giving the story better-developed characters and a fuller arc. Through the cross-genre transplantation, the new adaptation is strengthened by Peking opera’s distinct advantages including its comprehensive range of role types and schools while retaining the signature elegance of Yue opera.
Set in the Ming dynasty, the story begins on the 60th birthday of high-ranking politician Yang Jikang. All of his five daughters and their husbands have come to his residence for a party, but the least well-to-do couple, his foster daughter Sanchun and son-in-law Zou Yinglong, are shunned by the family and kicked out of the house. Soon, Yang is framed by a political rival and loses his title, wealth and home, and Sanchun turns out to be the only child willing to take him in. Fortunately, Zou gets his big career breakthrough just in time to help his father-in-law clear his name and rescue the Yang clan. As Mrs Yang’s 60th birthday rolls in, the whole family once again unites for a day of celebration, rejoicing together after pain and turmoil.
Cast:
Tian Lei, Zhang Lan, Zhou Jing, Ma Along, Zha Sina, Jin Xing, Guo Xiao, Du Zhe, Liu Qi, Zhao Jia, Jiang Meiyi, Zhu Lingyu, Wang Jingrong, Bi Xiaoyang, Zhang Jiachun, Zhang Bing, Li Chen
China National Peking Opera Company
Founded in 1955, China National Peking Opera Company is a national arts organisation under the direct supervision of China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The Peking opera titan Mei Lanfang served as its first president. The company is currently led by its president Wang Yong, Member of the CPPCC National Committee, Vice Chairman of the China Theatre Association and a National Class One Playwright; and artistic director Yuan Huiqing, Member of the CPPCC National Committee and a National Class One Performer.
Since its establishment, the company has been home to an array of esteemed Peking opera artists including Li Shaochun, Yuan Shihai, Ye Shenglan, Du Jinfang, Weng Ouhong, Fan Junhong and A’Jia.
In its 80-odd-year history, China National Peking Opera Company has staged over 600 operas with a variety of themes and styles, intellectual depth and high artistic and production value. Its most iconic works include Mu Guiying Assumes Command, The Legend of the White Snake, Havoc in Heaven and A River All Red.
In addition to its traditional repertoire, the company has in recent decades produced a series of modern operas and new adaptations such as The Xi'an Incident, Birthday Celebration by Five Daughters and Romance of the Western Chamber.
As one of the country’s premier xiqu troupes, the company has been working on promoting traditional Chinese culture and cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world.