National Treasures Lead the Cast, Presenting Two Masterpieces by Mei Lanfang

To celebrate the 22nd anniversary of Macau's return to the motherland, the National Beijing Opera Theatre will present two national-level Beijing Opera masterpieces for Macau audiences over two consecutive days. The performances will be led by the strongest cast, headed by Yu Kuizhi, a leading figure in contemporary Beijing Opera art, and Li Shengsu, an inheritor of the Mei School.

Opening Performance: The Legend of Lady Yang

• Source: Adapted from Bai Juyi's poem Song of Everlasting Sorrow from the Tang Dynasty.
• Story: Tells the love story between Emperor Xuanzong of Tang and his beloved consort Yang Yuhuan during a time of turmoil, a tale that continues to captivate imaginations centuries later.
• Legacy: The Beijing Opera version was originally created and performed by Master Mei Lanfang. It is renowned for its equal emphasis on song and dance, with librettos of high literary quality and innovative melodies.

Finale Performance: Mu Guiying Takes Command

• Story: Depicts the retired heroine Mu Guiying taking up arms to defend the Song Dynasty's borders against an invasion from the Western Xia.
• Legacy: Adapted by Master Mei Lanfang from a Henan Yu Opera in 1959, this was his final creation in his later years. Its premiere in Beijing became a celebrated event.

The Charm of National Quintessence – Not to Be Missed

The National Beijing Opera Theatre was founded in 1955, with Master Mei Lanfang as its first president. Over half a century, the theatre has inherited, created, and staged nearly 600 outstanding productions. It has toured over 50 countries and regions across five continents, earning international acclaim for Beijing Opera culture and playing a vital role in cultural exchange. This visit to Macau features the strongest cast performing two classic operas, delivering the authentic charm of this national treasure – an absolute must-see.

Event Details

• Dates: December 17–18, 2021

Organizing Units

• Organizers:
  • Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China
  • Secretariat for Social Affairs and Culture of the Government of the Macao Special Administrative Region
• Co-organizers:
  • Publicity and Culture Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao Special Administrative Region
  • Education and Youth Development Bureau of the Government of the Macao Special Administrative Region
  • China Arts and Entertainment Group Ltd.
• Presenter: Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Government of the Macao Special Administrative Region
• Performing Unit: China National Beijing Opera Theatre
• Exclusive Financial Partner: Bank of China Macau Branch