Yang Fengyi, the director of Northern Kunqu Opera Theater, came up with the idea of presenting such a special version of The Peony Pavilion.

As the opening show of the 2014 National Kunqu Heritage Report Performance, which will run from Dec 13 to 24, this version of The Peony Pavilion will be staged in Beijing on Dec 13 and 14.

During the 2014 National Kunqu Heritage Report Performance, The Peony Pavilion will be performed in eight different versions by seven Kunqu Opera troupes.

"When I was a little girl, I admired their Kunqu Opera singing skills and performances. I hope this version will work as a good example for the young Chinese Kunqu Opera actors," says Yang, 52.

"

The Peony Pavilion has been adapted into different art forms, such as ballet and contemporary dance. But for me, only Kunqu Opera could tell the authentic story and emotions thoroughly. To achieve the creativity of ancient art forms, we have to learn from the past, from the old-generation artists."

If you go

7:30 pm, Dec 13 and 14. Tianqiao Theater, 30 Beiwei Lu (Road), Xicheng district, Beijing. 4006-228-228.

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