To commemorate the 120th anniversary of Cheng Yanqiu’s birth, Zhai Qian, a rookie from the Cheng School, performed two solo shows in Beijing.

On October 27, 2023, a noteworthy event took place at the Mei Lanfang Grand Theatre in Beijing, as students from the Cheng School of Peking Opera at the China National Academy of Theatre Arts celebrated the 120th anniversary of the birth of the renowned performer, Cheng Yanqiu. One standout performer, Zhai Qian, held a two-night personal showcase that delighted audiences.

During the first night on October 24, Zhai brought the classic Cheng School masterpiece “Locking the Lotus Bag” to life, followed by “Night Weaving” and “抢子” from “Tears on the Desolate Mountain” and “Confrontation” from “Jade Hall Spring” on the second night, October 25. The audience, consisting of both locals and Peking Opera enthusiasts from across the country, expressed their admiration for Zhai with a “碰头彩” welcome. His steady yet striking performances resonated with the viewers, evoking emotional responses that brought some to tears.

This performance was part of the “National Opera Enchantment” exhibition series, organized by the China National Academy of Theatre Arts in collaboration with the Dalian Peking Opera Theatre. The event combined resources from both regions, featuring contributions from Yi Lin, a prominent martial arts performer and Executive Vice Principal of the Academy’s affiliated school, who showcased “Lin Chong’s Night Escape.” Longtime collaborators of Zhai, including musicians Zhao Yu, Gu Yujie, and Yan Shuyin, also graced the stage, delivering an outstanding show.

Zhai Qian’s passion for Peking Opera began at an early age. He started studying the art form systematically at Shandong University of Arts in 2006 and began training under the esteemed Cheng School master Zhang Huoding in 2014. Reflecting on his journey, Zhai recalled moments of self-doubt, admitting he doesn’t consider himself particularly gifted. He shared the impactful advice from Zhang, who emphasized the importance of hard work and steady progress in their craft, a mantra Zhai has kept close to his heart. With time, he has come to appreciate the idea that “effort naturally leads to success.”

During his time at the training program, Zhai and fellow students from the Cheng School showcased their talents at several prestigious national art festivals, including the “Meet in Beijing” International Arts Festival and the Shanghai International Arts Festival. The experiences gained through performances have significantly advanced their artistic skills and aesthetic sensibilities. Today, many of Zhai’s peers, like him, have assumed important roles in their respective troupes, actively contributing to the legacy of Cheng School artistry across stages nationwide.