Beijing Opera School

There are two main elements in this Chinese performance: a book and a school. The book is called On the waterfront, the tale of 108 rebels who made the Heavenly Kingdom shudder on its foundations. The novel took nearly three centuries to complete and tells of China during the Song Dynasty, which reigned until the twelfth century. It has been read by at least a billion people, and many more are familiar with it via storytellers, puppet theatre, opera, television, film, comic strips and video games. The school is the famous Peking Opera School, unique in the world. There, one learns acrobatics, singing and a demanding theatrical sign language. This language of the hands, eyes, feet and body consists of thousands of gestures. One also learns the technique of the fanciful make-up that goes with the eccentric costumes. It is an elevated but fragile art form, threatened by modern times. In their own way, the students at the Peking Opera School are today’s heroes. The director emphasizes the authenticity and integrity of the art form while at the same time making it accessible for Western audiences.

Beijing Opera School, Shi Nai-an, will present and explain Beijing Opera in cooperation with the Dutch National Opera.

Introductions
Introductions to individual productions are provided regularly. They begin 45 minutes before the performance and are held on the upper level of the foyer. For productions in locations other than The Amsterdam Music Theatre, the introductions are held in the relevant location. Please note: these introductions are in Dutch only.

Opera experts supply background information and interesting details. The introductions are provided free of charge for ticket holders of that day's performance, although places are limited. For further information, please e-mail info@dno.nl

These introductions are made possible by the generous support of the Friends of the Opera.

Please also check the sit of the Dutch National Opera

Dates

Tue 15 May at 20.15,

Thur 17 May at 15.00,

Fri 18 MAy at  20.15.