IACA - Indiana Association of Chinese Americans

Beijing Opera History

Beijing Opera (or Peking Opera) has existed for over 200 years. It is widely regarded as the highest expression of the Chinese culture. It is known as one of the three main theatrical systems in the world. Artistically, Beijing Opera is perhaps the most refined form of opera in the world. Although it is called Beijing Opera, its origins are not in Beijing but in the Anhui and Hubei. Beijing Opera got its two main melodies, Xi_Pi and Er_Huang, from Anhui and Hubei operas. It then absorbed music and arias from other operas and musical arts in China.

It is regarded that Beijing Opera was born when the Four Great Anhui Troupes came to Beijing in 1790. It was originally staged for the royal family. In 1828, when some famous Hubei Troupe players came to Beijing. Hubei and Anhui troupes often jointly performed on the stage. The combination gradually formed the mainstream of Beijing Opera's melodies. It was favored by people from all walks of the society, from the high-ranking government officials to the lower levels of society. There are thousands of pieces covering the entire history and literature of China, even including revised stories from the west.

During the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), Beijing Opera suffered along with other kinds of theatrical arts in China. All the traditional pieces reflecting the Old Societies were banned from performance. The famous Eight Model Plays, featuring the communist activities during the anti-Japanese war and the civil war with the Nationalists, as well as the class struggles after the founding of the People's Republic, were then developed. These plays introduced some new forms of stage performances. Many people who grew up during the Cultural Revolution are still in favor of the music and singing from the Eight Model Plays.

Traditional Beijing Opera was allowed to be shown again in 1978. But due to the threat from other entertainments, Beijing Opera's out-of-date styles and the lack of historical and theatrical knowledge of the young, this art had lost a lot of its audiences. Most of the audiences are old people, who were children when Beijing Opera was at its peak. The art is dying.

Want to have a taste of Beijing Opera? Come to our Chinese New Year celebration!

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Contents

The President's Greeting
IACA 2005 New Council
Announcements
Lion Dance Team In Action
Beijing Opera History
Christmas Gala/Annual Business Meeting Report
New Council Member Bio
Do You Know . . .