来源@视觉中国

Beijing Opera provides a set of standardized art-expressing rules in various aspects such as literature, performance, music and stage design.

来源@视觉中国

Roles in Beijing Opera are classified into Sheng (young male character), Dan (young female character), Jing ("painted face" character), Chou (clown) and other roles in line with natural attributes of the characters.

来源@视觉中国

来源@视觉中国

More frequently, they are classified in accordance with the characters' personalities and appraisals of the originator on them. A set of performance rules is prepared for every role, with unique features in singing, speaking, acting and martial arts.

来源@视觉中国

The art of facial makeups in Beijing Opera boasts a long history. Masks are used by performers when they act or dance. In Beijing Opera, the most representative of Chinese operas, facial makeups are limited only to the roles of “jing” and “chou”.