What is Peking Opera

Peking Opera, known as Jing Ju (Capital Opera), has a history of more than 200 years. Because of its patronage by the ruling Qing or Manchu Dynasty, Peking Opera grew from a local folk art to the standard bearer of theatrical art. It attained the prominent status of Guo Ju or national Opera of China.

After the Qing Dynasty was overthrown in 1911, Peking Opera continued to gain popularity not only with the upper classes, but also with students and intellectuals. By the 1920s, it had developed into a splendid art form and a popular means of entertainment as well. In the capital alone, numerous theaters were established solely for opera performances, and there were at least three academies for training young performers and several professional opera troupes that performed every week.