Catch a commanding performance by Peking opera virtuoso Shi Yihong as she headlines a trio of her most iconic roles. This special series features the timeless tragedies and heroism of Farewell My Concubine, Mu Guiying Takes Command, and the complete Legend of the White Snake. It's a premier opportunity to witness the depth and power of Chinese traditional theatre delivered by one of its foremost contemporary masters.
Farewell My Concubine
- Date: 13 Dec 2025
- Time: 7:15pm
- Duration: 130mins
- Subtitles: English and Chinese
"Farewell My Concubine" is a classic masterpiece of the Mei School of Peking Opera. Set during the civil war between Chu and Han at the end of the Qin Dynasty, the story follows the tragic fate of Xiang Yu, the Conqueror King of Chu, and his beloved Consort Yu. After being tricked into a fatal ambush at Jiuli Mountain, Xiang Yu's army is besieged at Gaixia. Hearing the songs of his native Chu from all sides, he knows his defeat is imminent. In his tent, he drinks with Consort Yu, who dances with a sword to comfort him.
After her dance, she takes her own life to free him from worry. Xiang Yu breaks through the siege but, upon reaching the Wu River, feels too ashamed to face his people and also commits suicide. The aria "Seeing My Lord in the Tent" is one of six famous singing pieces for the role of Consort Yu. The play is renowned for its demanding performance techniques, particularly the "Consort Yu's Sword Dance," which is a pinnacle of expressive, tragic beauty.
The production is headlined by Shi Yihong, a National First-Class Actor and leading Mei School Qingyi performer from the Shanghai Peking Opera Theatre. A master of both martial and civilian roles, Shi Yihong is celebrated for her technically precise and emotionally deep characterizations.
The plot depicts the final hours of Xiang Yu, the Conqueror King of Chu, and his unwavering consort, Yu Ji. Trapped and facing certain defeat, the story culminates in Yu Ji's famous sword dance, a heart-wrenching effort to comfort her lord before taking her own life. This dance is a legendary piece of Peking Opera, a powerful synthesis of technique and expression that defines the play's tragic beauty. Understood as a masterpiece of traditional Chinese theatre, this performance offers a window into the depth and dramatic power of Peking Opera, brought to life by one of its most acclaimed contemporary interpreters.
Mu Guiying Takes Command
- Date: 14 Dec 2025
- Time: 7:15pm
- Duration: 140mins
- Subtitles: Chinese only
"Mu Guiying Takes Command" is a Mei School classic created by Master Mei Lanfang in 1959. It tells the story of the legendary Song Dynasty general Mu Guiying, who is called upon to lead the army against a Western Xia invasion despite her resentment over past injustices suffered by her family. The narrative powerfully explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and patriotism.
The production is headlined by the acclaimed Shi Yihong, a National First-Class Actor and leading Mei School Qingyi performer from the Shanghai Peking Opera Theatre, who is renowned for her ability to seamlessly blend the dignified Qingyi and the martial Daomadan roles.
The plot follows the legendary female general Mu Guiying, who is called upon to defend the Song Dynasty from invasion despite bearing resentment towards the Emperor for his past mistreatment of her family. The drama powerfully explores the conflict between personal grievance and patriotic duty. Shi Yihong's performance is particularly celebrated in the pivotal "Holding the Commander's Seal" scene, where she masterfully uses stylized Peking Opera techniques—a slight tremble of the fingers, a fiery gaze—to convey two decades of pent-up emotion and her ultimate, resolute return to command. The play is not only a thrilling story of loyalty and resilience but also a profound showcase of the artistic depth and expressive power of Peking Opera, delivered by one of its foremost modern interpreters.
The Legend of the White Snake
- Date: 15 Dec 2025
- Time: 7:15pm
- Duration: 150mins
- Subtitles: Chinese only
This performance presents the full version of "The Legend of the White Snake," a classic tale of love and resistance. It follows the snake spirit Bai Suzhen's transformation into a mortal, her romance with scholar Xu Xian, and their struggle against the monk Fahai's relentless persecution.
The production moves through iconic scenes from the West Lake meeting to the Dragon Boat Festival revelation, herb theft, and epic battle at Golden Mountain Temple, seamlessly blending lyrical singing with acrobatic combat to showcase Peking Opera's full artistry.
Headlined by acclaimed National First-Class Actor Shi Yihong, this rendition offers a rare complete portrayal of Bai Suzhen. Breaking from tradition where different specialists perform segments, Shi—celebrated for mastering both martial and civilian roles—guides the character through her entire emotional and physical journey. Her performance shines in demanding sequences like "Fighting in the Water" and "Stealing the Herb," where her martial foundation combines with nuanced singing and acting, offering a powerful showcase of a contemporary artist mastering one of Peking Opera's most iconic roles.
From Dec 13 until Dec 15 
Create a new List