Descriptions
Luoyang, a city of elegance, is famous for its iconic peonies, with Yu Opera as its artistic soul. The legendary Ma Jinfeng, creator of the "shuai dan" (military-leading female) role type, combines stylised movements of "qingyi" (virtuous female), "daomadan" (sword-wielding and riding female), and "wusheng" (martial male), and is acclaimed as ‘the Peony of Luoyang’. Specialised in the "shuai dan" role, her disciple Guan Meili will be joined by Plum Blossom Award winners and Class One Performers to present signature works of the Ma School: "Mu Guiying Takes Command", which exemplifies heroic feminine valour; "Demanding Justice from the Emperor", a classic Yu Opera comedy that sparkles with wit and vivacity through the female lead; and "The Spear as a Token of Love", a bitter love story spanning four decades. Selected excerpts from diverse stylistic traditions will complete the programme.
Main Cast: Guan Meili, Wang Hui (Guest), Jia Wenlong (Guest), Bo Qing (Guest), Chen Dahua, Liu Yalin
17/7 (FRI) 7:30pm
"Mu Guiying Takes Command"
Main Cast: Guan Meili, Wang Hui (Guest), Jia Wenlong (Guest)
18/7 (SAT) 7:30pm
Excerpts: "Emotional Outpouring at the South Camp" from "The Spear as a Token of Love", "At the Imperial Court" from "Demanding Justice from the Emperor", "Interrogating the Husband", "The Ingenious County Magistrate", "Setting Off for Battle" from "Five Generations of Loyal Generals"
Main Cast: Guan Meili, Wang Hui (Guest), Jia Wenlong (Guest), Bo Qing (Guest), Chen Dahua, Liu Yalin
The performance will run for about 2 hours 15 minutes including a 15-minute intermission.
Programme offerings differ by date. With Chinese and English surtitles.
Extension Activity
16/7 (THU) 7:30pm
Meet-the-Artists: On the Development and Dissemination of Yu Opera – A Legacy from Luoyang, Henan
Speakers: Guan Meili, Wang Hui, Jia Wenlong, Bo Qing, Chen Dahua, Liu Yalin
Moderator: Giovanna WU
Venue: AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
In Putonghua
Free admission. Limited seats available on a first-come, first-served basis. Online registration is required, please refer to Cultural Presentations Section website.
