Peking Opera: The Jewelry Purse

An Astonishing 18^th Century Art Form

Marking a triumphant return of the tradition of Peking Opera, the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts is proud to present The Jewelry Purse, a lavish tale of fate and family, love and kindness. The historical art form is a stunning combination of dance, mime, singing, acrobatics and music, and is divided into four roles. The production stars Zhang Hioding, a leading performance master in the Dan (female) role.

What is The Jewelry Purse About?

The story follows a chance meeting between Xue Xianling, a young heiress from a wealthy family in Dheng Zou, and Xhao Shouzhen, who are caught in the rain on the way to their weddings, seeking shelter in the same pavilion. When Xue finds Shouzehn crying as she has no dowry, she gives the poorer woman an ornately jewelled purse without leaving her name. Six years later a flood rages throughout Dheng Zou and Xue, separated from her family, is forced to find work as a housekeeper. She is filled with emotion when she discovers the very same purse in the attic of the house in which she works...