Beijing

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102b Beijing.jpg (39203 bytes) The stage is bare of scenery, the performers bodily movements or people holding props set the scene.  The holding of a whip means riding a horse, while carrying an oar means taking a boat.
There are four role classifications: 

Sheng, male roles of scholars, officials and warriors.

Dan, (Traditionally played by men), female roles of beautiful maidens, fairies, older women and swordswomen.  

The Jing, painted face roles of good or evil characters they may be princes, ministers or marshals etc

The Chou is the clown and recognizable by his white nose.

 102a Beijing.jpg (39817 bytes)
105 Beijing.jpg (39908 bytes) Beijing Opera is quite unlike European opera.  There is music, singing, recitation, dancing, martial arts and acrobatics.
A Wu Dan actress playing the swordswoman kicks and throws 8 spears keeping them constantly moving through the air.  Three warriors catch and throw them back to her.  An amazing feat (no pun intended) 105a Beijing.jpg (39543 bytes)
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