China Experimental Xiqu Exhibition Returns With 13 Innovative Small-Theater Productions
The China Experimental Xiqu (Traditional Opera) Exhibition will run from January 27 to February 8 at Changjiang Theater, Wanping Theater, and Zhou Xinfang Art Space in Shanghai.
Marking its 11th edition, the exhibition will present 13 small-theater traditional opera productions, selected from 75 submissions by theater companies nationwide.
The lineup features bold Eastern reinterpretations of world classics. These include the Puju Opera "Othello · Suspicion," which reimagines Shakespeare's tragedy within an ancient Chinese historical context, and the Yueju Opera "King Lear," which relocates the Shakespeare story to early Chinese history to explore contemporary social issues.
The program also offers contemporary re-readings of traditional narratives. The Kunqu Opera "Alone on the Orchid Boat" and the Peking Opera "Qingzhao" both delve into the turbulent life and artistic legacy of celebrated Song Dynasty (960-1279) poet Li Qingzhao from fresh perspectives.
Another notable production, "Lady White Bone," integrates the original vocal style of the endangered Haizhou Tongzi Opera with the classic tale "Journey to the West," exploring innovative approaches to preserving endangered theatrical forms.
A further highlight is "The Miser" by the Jingju Theater Company of Beijing. Adapted from the classic comedy by French playwright Molière, the production creatively combines Peking Opera's performing style of the "chou" (comic) role with diverse elements such as shadow puppetry, masked dance, and rock music, offering audiences a lively and refreshing theatrical experience.
Yueju Opera performer Chen Lijun, winner of the 18th Wenhua Performance Award – China's top honor for professional stage performance – serves as the exhibition's image ambassador.
According to Zhang Jie, president of the Shanghai Center of Chinese Operas, the exhibition has evolved into a prominent cultural brand within the traditional opera community. This year's edition will also see the launch of a Traditional Opera Innovation Lab aimed at fostering and supporting outstanding original works.
Through a series of complementary programs – including industry training, academic forums, dialogue salons, and opera open days – the exhibition seeks to cultivate an innovative ecosystem and establish a more robust incubation system for emerging opera talent.
For performance schedule, please check www.shcnoperas.cn.
Event info:
Date: January 27 to February 8
Venue: Changjiang Theater, 35 Huanghe Rd; Wanping Theater, 859 Zhongshan Rd S2; Zhou Xinfang Art Space, 1198 Tianyaoqiao Rd.
