Chi Xiaoqiu leads a Peking Opera performance commemorating the 120th anniversary of Peking Opera artist Cheng Yanqiu's birth. Photo: Screenshot from website

 
This year marks the 120th anniversary of the birth of Peking Opera artist Cheng Yanqiu, one of the "Four Great Dan Actors." To honor his legacy, the China Federation of Literary and Art Circles, along with other institutions, recently co-hosted a series of memorial events in Beijing. These events spanned four days and concluded today.

Throughout his nearly 50-year artistic career, Cheng Yanqiu dedicated himself to the innovation and development of Peking Opera, creating a series of vivid and expressive artistic images. His notable works include The Lucky Purse, Dream of the Bridal Chamber, and Tears of Wasted Mountain. He made significant contributions to opera reform, opera education, and theatrical theory research.

On the first day of the event, a symposium brought together Cheng's family, old friends, researchers, and opera experts to review Cheng's artistic achievements. Following the symposium, outstanding disciples of the Cheng School, such as Li Haiyan, Li Peihong, and Zhou Jing, performed many famous pieces from the Cheng School repertoire. Notable figures like Zhang Jianguo, Yuan Huiqin, and Song Xiaochuan also participated, presenting a grand feast of national essence art to the audience.

During the event, four commemorative performances were held at the Mei Lanfang Grand Theatre. These included a concert of famous Peking Opera excerpts, a special performance of Cheng School highlights, and productions of The Lucky Purse and Imperial Concubine Mei. The Lucky Purse is known for its elegant language, rich vocal patterns, intriguing story, and profound themes. Imperial Concubine Mei combines complex vocal parts with stunning dance, making it a very challenging performance.