Peking Opera company marks 70 years on the stage

China National Peking Opera Company announced the celebration programs for its 70th anniversary.

Seven traditional Peking Opera shows will be staged during the Spring Festival holiday, marking the opening of the anniversary series.

From mid-February to mid-April, the company will hold 14 performances at the Mei Lanfang Theatre, featuring famous works and performances from renowned Peking Opera performers. An additional 13 major performances will focus on showcasing representative works by past and present theater artists, with young and middle-aged actors taking leading roles.

According to Wang Yong, president of the company, the celebrations include the release of the book collection China National Peking Opera Company Artist Series and the 70th Anniversary Commemorative Album of the China National Peking Opera Company, as well as activities such as "My 70 Years" and "Me and My Theater", and the "Homecoming Ceremony" for veteran artists.

The company was founded in 1955. Its theater was built in 2007 and named after Mei Lanfang, the company's first director and a Peking Opera master.

"We are dedicated to preserving the art of Peking Opera. One of our key missions is to train the younger generation of Peking Opera artists," says Wang.

After preparing for over a year, the company's new Peking Opera troupe for children was established in July 2024. Gathering more than 70 members, the troupe will also be part of the anniversary programs.