Performing in tribute to a legendary master

"The opera was rarely performed because of the extravagant stage setting and the large number of actors required," says Lu, an actress of Jingju Theater Company of Beijing who will perform alongside actors and actresses from other Peking Opera companies in Tianjin, Shanghai, and Hubei province.

In addition to the opera, the tour will feature five other classic pieces, each reflecting Lu's personal growth and her deepening understanding of Mei-style artistry. These include The Legend of the White Snake and The Female Generals of the Yang Family, both of which highlight martial arts movements.

"These six plays encompass nearly all vocal styles, role types, and expressive possibilities for the dan role," she explains. "They require both refinement and martial arts skills. They're physically challenging, but each performance offers an opportunity for growth."

Born in Henan province, Lu, 38, did not come from a theatrical family, but traditional Chinese opera captivated her at an early age. Her grandfather was a passionate fan of Peking Opera, playing it constantly on the radio. She would mimic every phrase, and neighbors came to watch her. By age 10, she was determined to enter a local Peking Opera school.

After graduating from the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts in Beijing in 2014, Lu joined the Jingju Theater Company of Beijing the same year. There, she immersed herself in the demanding Mei style — a combination of grandeur, sweetness, and expressive range that requires both technical mastery and deep emotional commitment.