Beijing Opera (1)

The early Qing Dynasty saw a great development of a plethora of operas. In the middle of the Qing Dynasty, Hui and Han operas were brought into Beijing. They became immensely popular with the imperial family, nobles, officials and the commoners. The marriage of Hui and Han operas became known as the Beijing opera.

Beijing opera consists of singing, recital, gestures and fighting actions. The song-and-dance routine, the dazzling costumes, the stylized performance and colorful facial make-up were a huge draw.

stylized action

Beijing opera recreates settings and props through the use of mimed gestures and actions. The stage has no real door, carriage, boat, mountain or horse; hence the actors will mime the action of opening the door, entering through the door, getting on a carriage, rowing a boat, climbing up a mountain and riding a horse.

For example, the hands showing the action of holding a rein means the actor is riding a horse, the act of opening a door means just that and walking round the stage in one circle means a long journey.