The Peony Pavilion

The Suzhou Kun Opera Theater of Jiangsu Province
Kenneth Hsien-yung Pai, writer and producer

LOS ANGELES DEBUT

“A new, refreshing type of Kun is created, no longer oppressive, aged, remote, but contemporary, elegant and stylish” — Xinwen Wubao, Shanghai

From the mists of the Ming Dynasty comes a tale of love, beauty and marriage so profound that it still resonates with modern audiences more than 400 years later. One of the world’s greatest artistic accomplishments, The Peony Pavilion is the supreme example of Chinese Kun opera, an art form refined over centuries combining literature, music, dance and drama. No one has succeeded more brilliantly in interpreting Tang Xianzu’s epic love story (often compared to Romeo and Juliet) than the esteemed Taiwanese literary scholar and producer Kenneth Pai. This abridged version of the original sweeping text is presented in three parts over three nights, and features a handpicked young cast from Taiwan, Hong Kong and mainland China, with exquisite handmade costumes.

BOOK I: The Dream of Love-Fri, Sep 29 at 8pm
Du Liniang, a sheltered, lonely girl of 16, dreams of a handsome scholar. Saddened that he was only a dream, she dies of a broken heart. Before she dies, she paints a self-portrait and hides it in the garden.

BOOK II: Romance and Resurrection-Sat, Sep 30 at 8pm
Liu Mengmei, an impoverished scholar, dreams of a beautiful lady. He finds Du’s portrait, and falls in love with the image. Convinced of Liu’s love, Du returns to life.

BOOK III: Reunion and Triumph-Sun, Oct 1 at 7pm
The lively resolution to the story features some of the most humorous episodes in Kun opera. Du is reunited with her parents, but not before her stern father admits that love can conquer death.

Performed with English and Mandarin surtitles

The UCLA Center for Chinese Studies will host free pre-performance discussions each night for ticketholders, one hour prior to show time, in 314 Royce Hall. Space is limited. Call 310.825.3827 for reservations. For more information about related educational events, please visit the Center's website.

The U.S. Tour of the The Peony Pavilion is supported by Trend Micro Education Foundation, Richard Liu Foundation, Ltd. and The Peony Pavilion Performing Arts Foundation.

9/25 LA18 news coverage: PRC Consulate welcomed Peony Pavilion troops

9/26 LA18 news coverage: Watching Peony Pavilion 101

Click here to purchase a series or create your own series

Email Event Info