The Pearl Pagoda is a beloved traditional Yue Opera that tells the story of Fang Qing, a fallen scholar who faces humiliation, hardship, and separation before ultimately achieving success and reuniting with his beloved cousin Chen Cui’e. Blending romance, resilience, and moral vindication, the play remains a staple of the Yue Opera repertoire.

About the Story

The Pearl Pagoda follows Fang Qing, the son of an official family in Henan, whose household falls into decline. Seeking financial help, he travels to Xiangyang to ask assistance from his aunt, only to be mocked and humiliated. Angered, he leaves.

His cousin Chen Cui’e secretly learns of his departure and, under the pretext of gifting him dried snacks, hides a precious pearl pagoda among the provisions to help him. Chen Peide, Cui’e’s father, later meets Fang Qing at Jiushong Pavilion and promises his daughter’s hand in marriage.

On his journey home, Fang Qing is robbed of the pearl pagoda and left freezing and starving in the snow. He is rescued by his former classmate Bi Yunxian, who brings him to the capital. Fang Qing later excels in the imperial examination. Disguised as a Daoist priest, he returns to the Chen household and uses sung narration to satirize his aunt’s earlier cruelty. In the end, justice prevails and he marries Chen Cui’e.

Cast

Fang Qing: Xu Biaoxin

Chen Cui’e: Deng Huawei

Fang Duohua: Zhou Yan’er

Performed by: Shanghai Yue Opera Theatre – Troupe One

Why It’s Worth Seeing

For audiences interested in traditional Chinese opera, The Pearl Pagoda offers a classic story of perseverance, loyalty, and moral justice. As a representative work of Yue Opera, it is known for its lyrical singing style, expressive acting, and elegant staging.

Even if you are not familiar with the dialect or vocal style, attending a Yue Opera performance is also a rich cultural experience. The refined costumes, graceful movements, and melodic music create an atmosphere rooted in traditional Chinese aesthetics. Watching it live provides insight into one of China’s most cherished regional opera forms and offers an engaging way to experience traditional storytelling on stage.