Peking Opera is regarded as China’s national opera and is the most popular and widespread opera in the country. It is generally believed that Peking opera developed from several ancient local operas during the mid and late 19th century. In 1790th,the 55th year of Qing Dynasty Emperor Qianlong’s reign, the Sanqing Anhui Opera Troupe moved from Anhui Province to Beijing to perform in the celebrations to –mark Emperor Qianlong’s 80th birthday. Later, three more Anhui opera troupes-the Sixi, Chuntai, Hechun troupes also came to perform in Beijing. Together with Sanqing, they were referred to as the Four Anhui Opera Troupes.

Peking Opera is a comprehensive art that has singing, recitation, acting and acrobatics (dancing) at its core. Feelings and ideas are often expressed through symbolic motions, and the unique format has developed over long years of performance. Using its standardized yet flexible format, many Peking opera artists have created a lot of vivid, touching characters with distinct personalities, thus helping Peking opera develop and prosper.