Discover the captivating art of Sichuan opera at Jinjiang Theater (锦江剧场) in the heart of Chengdu! Renowned for its iconic face-changing performances, the show takes audiences on an exhilarating journey through traditional opera techniques combined with dazzling stage effects. With dynamic acts like fire-breathing, costume changes, and acrobatics, this hour-long spectacle is an unmissable cultural experience for locals and tourists alike.
Performance Details
- Venue: Jinjiang Theater, 54 Huaxingzheng Street, Shuyuan Street, Jinjiang District, Chengdu (near Chunxi Road Pedestrian Street).
- Transportation: The Closest metro station to the theater is Chengdu No. 2 People’s Hospital (市二医院). After getting out of the station from Exit F, walk about 400 meters to the southwest to reach the site.
- Showtimes:
- First show: 7:00 PM–8:10 PM
- Second show: 8:30 PM–9:40 PM
- Ticket Prices:
- C-Tier: 78 RMB
- B-Tier: 128 RMB
- A-Tier: 168 RMB
- VIP: 298 RMB
Show Highlights
The Jinjiang Theater’s performance is a masterful display of Sichuan opera’s most celebrated techniques, blending art, culture, and high-energy entertainment. Here are the main attractions:
Eight-Face Changing: The pinnacle of the performance, this act features a performer rapidly switching between eight different facial masks in mere seconds. The sophisticated mechanism behind the masks, combined with the actor’s skillful movements, creates an atmosphere of mystery and artistic brilliance.
Three Costume Changes: This act demonstrates the actor’s ability to seamlessly change into three completely different outfits in the blink of an eye. With synchronized lighting and sound effects, the quick costume transitions feel like magic, leaving the audience in awe.
Fire-Breathing: A classic feature of Sichuan opera, the fire-breathing act is both thrilling and visually stunning. Using precise techniques, the performer sprays flames into the air, creating an unforgettable spectacle of light and heat.
Rolling Lantern: This traditional act showcases incredible balance and dexterity as the performer moves, spins, and flips while balancing a lit oil lamp on their head. The daring stunts ensure the flame remains steady throughout, impressing audiences with precision and skill.
Hidden Blade: This act introduces a touch of suspense and surprise as the performer cleverly conceals a blade within their costume, only to reveal it at the perfect moment. The combination of sleight-of-hand and timing adds an extra layer of excitement to the show.
Storyline Overview
Set in Chengdu, one of the birthplaces of Sichuan opera, the performance tells the story of Xiao Sanqing, a young man passionate about this traditional art form. Determined to master the craft, he works tirelessly and eventually becomes a disciple of a famous opera master.
During his journey, Xiao Sanqing falls in love with Xiao Huanhua, but their romance is disrupted by the local bully, Ma Dashao, who forcibly takes Xiao Huanhua for himself. Ma further harms Xiao Sanqing by orchestrating a fire-breathing attack that leaves him disfigured.
Despite this setback, Xiao Sanqing refuses to give up. With the support of his mentor and Xiao Huanhua, he dedicates himself to perfecting his opera skills. Through relentless effort, he masters the art of face-changing and reclaims his dignity, emerging as a true star of Sichuan opera.