Peking Opera Overview

Front

What is Peking opera?

Back

A performance art incorporating singing, reciting, acting, and martial arts.

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Where is Peking opera primarily performed?

Back

Beijing, Tianjin, and Shanghai.

Front

What dialect is primarily used in Peking opera?

Back

Beijing dialect.

Front

What do the librettos of Peking opera emphasize?

Back

A strict set of rules that prize form and rhyme.

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What themes do Peking opera stories cover?

Back

History, politics, society, and daily life.

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What role does music play in Peking opera?

Back

It sets the pace of the show, creates atmosphere, shapes characters, and guides the story.

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What instruments are emphasized in 'civilian plays' of Peking opera?

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String and wind instruments such as the jinghu and dizi.

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What instruments are featured in 'military plays' of Peking opera?

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Percussion instruments like the bangu or daluo.

Front

How is performance characterized in Peking opera?

Back

By a formulaic and symbolic style with established choreography.

Front

What is the traditional approach to stage settings and props in Peking opera?

Back

They are kept to a minimum.