THE world-famous China National Peking Opera Company is to bring its spectacular show to Liverpool, marking its British provincial debut.
It will perform two masterpieces at the Arena in November, including the full-length European premiere of Farewell My Concubine as well as Warrior Women of Yang. Taking part will be two of the company’s legendary superstars Yu Kuizhi and Li Shengsu.
It will be the company’s first visit to the UK for 10 years and will also see the two classics performed at London’s Sadlers Wells.
The programme is described by organisers Sinolink Productions as a rare opportunity for Liverpool audiences to enjoy the fine art of one of China's most pre-eminent performing companies.
Four performances are planned in Liverpool between November 13 and 15, with five performances at Sadler’s Wells between November 19 and 22.
Farewell My Concubine is a renowned classical piece, a beautiful and harrowing story of political unrest, love, sacrifice and honour. Think immense love story and the consequences of lost battles and pride.
The rarely seen spectacular Warrior Women of Yang, meanwhile, is a story of grief, courage, patriotism and family loyalty.
Sinolink directors Ming Ming Dong and Kevin Zhang, who have organised the tour, said in a statement: “We are taking the opportunity of 2015 UK and China Cultural Exchange Year to present this fine, traditional art form of Peking Opera to the world to demonstrate that China is not just about what they can manufacture, but also about what they can perform. We sincerely hope the Liverpool audience will appreciate and be inspired by the masterpieces that the National Peking Opera Company will bring to the UK.
“Peking Opera is a unique art form. To achieve the highest level of performing skills often requires a lifelong dedication to practising the art. Most of the artists have to train from a very tender age at opera school before being an apprentice and learning from masters.
“Despite the spectacular costumes, face painting make-up and stunning stage craft, Peking Opera represents the essence of traditional Chinese values – whatever you would like to achieve, you must work hard through sweat and tears and resist from material temptation. If there is a common identity shared by the Chinese all over the world, it is the Peking Opera. If there is a common tune to draw tears from the Chinese all over the world, it is the Peking Opera.
“In the climate of a largely westernised China, there are still artists who are passionate about the traditional form of Chinese artistic heritage and devote their lives to preserving the century old form of art. The artists from National Peking Opera Company continue to pursue their dream of keeping this ancient Chinese art form alive and sharing its beauty and stagecraft with the world.”
Friday 13 November, 7.30pm Warrior Women of Yang
Saturday 14 November, 7.30pm Farewell My Concubine
Sunday 15 November, 2.00pm Farewell My Concubine
Sunday 15 November, 7.30pm Warrior Women of Yang
Tickets: £25 - £85
Booking: here or 0844 8000 400
