This classic Peking Opera The Jewelry Purse is led by renowned performer Shi Yihong and tells a story of fate, generosity, and reunion. The production highlights traditional vocal techniques and expressive performance styles rooted in one of China’s oldest art forms. Even without English subtitles, it offers a compelling cultural experience through music, movement, and visual storytelling.

About the Show

The Jewelry Purse is a classic Peking Opera centered on themes of compassion, fate, and transformation. The story follows Xue Xiangling, a wealthy young woman who, on her wedding day, encounters Zhao Shouzhen, a poor bride with no dowry. Moved by her situation, Xue gifts her treasured purse.

Years later, after losing her fortune in a flood, Xue is forced into servitude—only to discover that her employer is Zhao Shouzhen, the same woman she once helped. Their reunion leads to reconciliation and ultimately the restoration of Xue’s family.

The work is considered a representative masterpiece of the Cheng school of Peking Opera. Its lyrics and structure, written by playwright Weng Ouhong in 1937, are known for their poetic depth and emotional intensity. The role of Xue Xiangling requires a nuanced performance, reflecting her transformation from privilege to hardship through changes in voice, movement, and expression.

Cast & Creatives

Shi Yihong – Leading performer, principal actress of the Shanghai Peking Opera Company.
A first-class performer specializing in dan roles, she trained under Zhang Meijuan and vocal expert Lu Wenqin. Known for her versatility, she combines both martial and civil performance styles and has explored multiple operatic schools.

Her repertoire includes traditional works such as The Legend of the White Snake, Farewell My Concubine, and The Drunken Concubine, as well as contemporary adaptations. She has received major honors including the Plum Blossom Award and Magnolia Award.

About the Company

Shanghai Peking Opera Company – Founded in 1955, it is one of China’s leading national-level Peking Opera institutions. The company has a long history of influential artists and is recognized for both preserving tradition and developing new productions.

Why Go

Even without English subtitles, this performance is worth experiencing as a window into traditional Chinese culture. Peking Opera combines stylized movement, vocal artistry, costume, and symbolism to convey emotion and narrative beyond language. For audiences unfamiliar with the form, it offers a rare chance to witness a centuries-old performance tradition brought to life on stage.