A Show of Prowess: Peking Opera Excerpts

Li Jia-de is one of the most exceptional young wusheng performers. His stage presence is composed and robust, his movements elegant and precise, his stance powerful and inviting. Lee has very strong technique, displaying flair in both singing and text recitation. In Lü Bu Tests His Horse, his performance from where he mounts the horse to when he finally tames the Red Rabbit was stellar. He gracefully and steadily navigates through a series of complex, challenging martial arts movements, simultaneously reciting the text and singing with a steady, resounding voice. At the end, his agile descend from the platform exhibited stunning physicality and virtuosity, fully bringing the charismatic character Lü Bu to life. It was an astounding sight.

I must say that it has been a long time since I last saw such an outstanding show. Huang Yu-lin and Chen Chin-ho handed over their roles to Lin Ting-yu and Wang Yung-tseng. They are joined by Liu Yu-chih. who takes on the role of the netherworld judge. With that, the cast is complete, and all the performers are remarkably fitting for their roles. Most importantly, this rendition of Seized Alive exuded a style unique to their generation. Liu Yu-chih’s wacky portrayal of the netherworld judge was the highlight of the entire piece – he displayed incredible skill with chairs and fire-spitting. Wang Yung-tseng’s technique is superb, and his portrayal of Zhang San was hilarious and comical – definitely under the guidance of Chen Chin-ho. As for Lin Ting-yu, she made the role her own. Her facial expressions were richly layered – from a collected sombreness to a sorrowful hatred, and finally a toothy smile when she donned her red dress. It was bewitchingly alluring and breathtaking to watch. Amazing! Amazing! Amazing! – I have to repeat myself. The team has fully captured the artistic essence of their generation and made this performance their own!

From the moment Tai took the stage today, you can tell that he trained under Teacher Tang Wen-hua. The audience member next to me could not help but exclaim repeatedly how much he resembled Teacher Tang Wen-hua. His singing, breath, expressions, and even his flippant, witty charisma on stage all reminded me of Teacher Tang Wen-hua. The scene where he sparred with Chang was visually stunning, with the blue and pink swords crossing and dancing spectacularly. Chang is considered the belle of young Chinese opera female performers. I would often share photos of her in modern attire with my friends. Then, I would show them photos of her on stage in full martial arts wear. They would always retreat in fear, afraid that they may end up being beaten to a pulp like Lü Dong-bin!