Peking Opera, also known as Beijing Opera, is a traditional Chinese art form that combines music, dance, acrobatics, and dramatic performance. It is one of the most popular forms of Chinese theater and has a rich history spanning over 200 years. This guide will take you through some of the most famous Peking Opera characters, their roles, and the significance they hold in this unique cultural tradition.

The Four Major Roles in Peking Opera

Peking Opera characters are categorized into four main roles: Sheng, Dan, Jing, and Chou. Each role has distinct characteristics, both in terms of appearance and performance style.

1. Sheng (Male Roles)

Sheng roles are typically played by men and are divided into two categories: old Sheng and young Sheng.

  • Old Sheng: These characters are usually older, wise, and have a dignified demeanor. They wear beards and have a slower, more deliberate style of movement. Famous old Sheng characters include Wang Sheng, who is known for his role in the opera “The Story of the Western Chamber.”

  • Young Sheng: Young Sheng characters are depicted as young, heroic, and energetic. They have a lighter, more agile performance style and often wear a simple headpiece. A notable young Sheng character is Liu Sheng, famous for his role in “The Heroic Journey of Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai.”

2. Dan (Female Roles)

Dan roles are played by women and can be further divided into three categories: senior Dan, junior Dan, and color Dan.

  • Senior Dan: Senior Dan characters are usually depicted as noble, elegant, and dignified. They wear elaborate costumes and perform with grace and poise. Famous senior Dan characters include Mei Lanfang, who is celebrated for her role in “The Peony Pavilion.”

  • Junior Dan: Junior Dan characters are young, innocent, and often in love. They have a lighter, more playful performance style and wear simpler costumes. A notable junior Dan character is Yang Yuhua, famous for her role in “The White Snake.”

  • Color Dan: Color Dan characters are characterized by their colorful costumes and bold makeup. They often play roles that are either fierce, mischievous, or supernatural. A famous Color Dan character is Hu Meiniang, known for her role in “The Monkey King.”

3. Jing (Masked Roles)

Jing roles are the most easily recognizable in Peking Opera, as they are distinguished by their distinctive facial makeup. Jing characters are typically warriors, officials, or supernatural beings.

  • Warrior Jing: Warrior Jing characters are brave, strong, and often have a heroic demeanor. They wear elaborate armor and perform with a bold, powerful style. A famous Warrior Jing character is Zhang Fei, from the opera “The Three Kingdoms.”

  • Official Jing: Official Jing characters are depicted as dignified, wise, and sometimes corrupt. They wear formal robes and perform with a refined, measured style. A notable Official Jing character is Yu Hua, from the opera “The Peking Man.”

  • Supernatural Jing: Supernatural Jing characters include gods, ghosts, and demons. They often have exaggerated features and perform with a mystical, otherworldly style. A famous Supernatural Jing character is Li Erlang, from the opera “The Monkey King.”

4. Chou (Clown Roles)

Chou roles are the comic relief in Peking Opera. They are characterized by their exaggerated makeup, slapstick humor, and lively performance style.

  • Old Chou: Old Chou characters are depicted as elderly, wise, and often mischievous. They wear colorful costumes and perform with a humorous, playful manner. A famous Old Chou character is Wang Xianqin, from the opera “The Monkey King.”

  • Young Chou: Young Chou characters are depicted as young, lively, and often impulsive. They have a quick-witted, humorous performance style and wear colorful, stylish costumes. A notable Young Chou character is Liang Sheng, from the opera “The Peony Pavilion.”

Famous Peking Opera Characters

Here are some of the most famous Peking Opera characters and their respective roles:

  • Mei Lanfang: A legendary senior Dan actress known for her elegance and grace. She is famous for her role in “The Peony Pavilion.”

  • Shen Yiqing: A renowned old Sheng actor known for his powerful voice and dignified demeanor. He is famous for his role in “The Story of the Western Chamber.”

  • Hua Qingtong: A celebrated Color Dan actress known for her vibrant costumes and lively performance style. She is famous for her role in “The Monkey King.”

  • Wang Xianqin: A famous Old Chou actor known for his humorous and mischievous performances. He is famous for his role in “The Monkey King.”

  • Li Erlang: A well-known Supernatural Jing actor known for his powerful and mystical portrayal of the Monkey King in “The Monkey King.”

Conclusion

Peking Opera is a treasure trove of fascinating characters, each with its own unique role and significance. The four major roles—Sheng, Dan, Jing, and Chou—come together to create a rich tapestry of stories and performances that have captivated audiences for centuries. By exploring the world of Peking Opera characters, we gain a deeper understanding of this ancient art form and its enduring appeal.