Song of Liangzhou is staged at the Xiliang Grand Theater in Wuwei, Gansu province. [Photo/Gansu Performance Group]

The newly produced historical Peking opera Song of Liangzhou was staged on Oct 29 and 30 at the Xiliang Grand Theater in Wuwei, Gansu province, offering local audiences an artistic journey across millennia.

Supported by both the China National Arts Fund and the Gansu Arts Fund, the opera is set during the Wei, Jin, and Southern and Northern Dynasties (220-589). It tells the story of Princess Ashi of the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534) and Juqu Mu, ruler of the Northern Liang period (397-460), as they face difficult choices between family loyalty, love, war, and peace. Through their poignant tragedy, the production explores profound themes of ethnic integration and conveys a deep yearning for peace.

The performance began with the resonant tones of bronze chime bells. Lead actress Pan Yu delivered a powerful portrayal through subtle expressions and moving vocal passages, vividly conveying her character's inner conflict and determination. By blending traditional Peking opera with the rich historical backdrop of Liangzhou (today known as Wuwei), the performance allowed the audience to appreciate both the aesthetic rigor of the art form and the emotional depth of its narrative.