Beijing Opera

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The style known as Beijing Opera arose during the 19th century and was popularized by the Qing Dynasty court. It is a unique combination of song, spoken dialogue, and choreographed body movements including fight sequences and acrobatics.

A Beijing Opera typically includes four major roles: a male role, a female role, a painted face male role, and a clown role. In typical Yin/Yang fashion, the names of the roles are opposite to their character. For instance, the female role would have a masculine name, while the male role would have a feminine name.

In Beijing, traditional Beijing Opera performances can be enjoyed at Zhengyici Xilou or Huguang Guild Hall.

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• Beijing Opera