In order to introduce traditional Chinese Peking opera art into campus life, strengthen traditional culture education, and imbue students with a sense of national identity, Tianjin University Peiyang Seeking Truth Opera Club started its series of performances in honor of its 10th anniversary since its restoration. On May 28th, 2017, the first performance “Dragon and Phoenix Palace” was held in the student activity center of the Weijin Road Campus.

The Peking Opera “Dragon and Phoenix Palace” tells a historical story that happened during the Ming dynasty. After the old emperor died, his concubine Li attended to state affairs because the new emperor was too young. Li’s father intended to usurp the throne and deceived Li into assisting him. Two loyal ministers put their own lives in peril and twice unmasked Li’s father’s intentions, thus protecting the emperor’s throne. This opera belongs to an old style, which has endured for a long time due to its popular songs, large-scale scenes, the riveting plot and high-quality actors performing it. Liu Baojie, Ma Shoufeng, Li Zhihong, Zang Lei, Qi long, Wang Jiajun, Liu Kun, and other faculty members and students from Tianjin University and Tianjin Normal University took part in this opera. Their brilliant performances fully displayed the peculiar charm of Chinese cultural essence, winning applause from the audience.

Peiyang Seeking Truth Peking Opera Club of Tianjin University was restored in 2007. With university faculty forming the main body, it was aimed at carrying forward the art of opera as well as enriching campus culture. The club has constantly enlarged from then on and put on a variety of well-received dramas. To promote the campus heritage of Chinese traditional culture, they performed on the 120th anniversary of Tianjin University and at many other art festivals.

As a typical research club, it not only emphasizes the improvement of acting standards but also attaches importance to the research of art theory, publishing many articles on Peking opera. The club has also participated in all kinds of social activities, such as the “Tianjin City Youth Peking Opera Performances” and achieved excellent results, including being recognized as one of the “top ten Peking Opera Troupes in Tianjin City”.

Planning is already underway for opera highlights, concerts, and other activities in this series to be held next semester.

By: Xu Lanzhi

Editors: Qin Mian and Christopher Peter Clarke