Chinese Peking Opera Traditional Stage Design

Author: Zhao Zhenbang / Wu Xuefu (editors)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-10-01
Features:
Peking Opera is a complete "comprehensive art," including stage work. What exactly does stage design encompass, what are the specific tasks involved, and what role does it play in the creation and performance of traditional opera? For many years, it has rarely been given sufficient attention and research, which is very unfair. Traditional Peking Opera stage design, also known as stage troupe in the past, has various names based on its content, such as: main costume box, secondary costume box, tertiary costume box, flag box, hairdressing table, color chest, stage assistant, and water pot, etc. In summary, it is a well-organized, highly specialized, and rigorously trained performance service team. This profession requires each staff member to be thoroughly familiar with the plot, achieving a highly synchronized collaboration with the actors, while also possessing quick reflexes and nimble hands, capable of independently crafting relevant headgear, props, and weapons according to the plot's needs. Their entire work process is not just imagination—it is the result of centuries of experience summarized and proven effective through the practical work of generations of artists. The work of the stage team has always revolved around the performance and actors. They are both backstage workers and an integral part of traditional opera art. Without them, traditional opera cannot be considered a comprehensive art or a highly art. Every stage worker spends their life behind the scenes, silently dedicating their wisdom and hard work. They deserve the respect and love of traditional opera artists and the general audience. Today, the method of teachers training students has replaced the apprenticeship system, with new teaching methods, including electronic teaching tools, greatly accelerating the cultivation of students and the updating of knowledge. This will undoubtedly bring greater innovation and development to our traditional opera stage design.