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Shanghai Pingtan Troupe | Show Introduction

A charming showcase of the many brilliant facets of pingtan, Jiangnan’s cultural treasure, by a leader of the genre

Hailed as “China’s most beautiful voice”, the National First-Class Shanghai Pingtan Troupe is a leader in this uniquely Jiangnanese form of performing arts which has officially been named part of China’s intangible cultural heritage, and has been widely acclaimed for its exquisite skills and elegant charm. With the use of just a table, two chairs, the simple percussive wood block xingmu, a folding fan, a pipa and a three-stringed lute, dramatic scenes and colourful characters are brought to life through a combination of storytelling, humour, music, songs, acting and other performance techniques.

The Troupe’s upcoming appearance at the HKAF feature a fantastic lineup, bringing together a dazzling and diverse group of pingtan performers spanning three generations, each with their own distinctive style and interpretation of the art form. A set of four stylistically contrasting performances will be held in two venues: the Nan Lian Garden, teeming with classical elegance, and Hong Kong City Hall in Central, a site of rich local history.

The programme includes popular favourites suitable for the entire family, romantic tales that have sparked people’s imaginations since ancient times, as well as a special performance dedicated to the ancient classic Dream of the Red Chamber, to be delivered in the softly captivating tanci (“little book”) style singing. The latter programme, including 14 songs dedicated to the different characters, is a perfect showcase of the various singing styles that illustrate the rich history of this beloved traditional art form.

Show Details

• Shanghai Pingtan Troupe
• Date & Time:
• March 17, 2024 14:00 & 17:30｜Xiang Hai Xuan, Nan Lian Garden
• March 18-19, 2024 19:30｜Theatre, Hong Kong City Hall

Ticket Details

• Ticket purchase website: URBTIX
• Ticket price: $350* / $300 / $240
• Students: $175* / $150 / $120

Remarks

• With Chinese surtitles and English synopses
• There is no URBTIX outlet at Xiang Hai Xuan, Nan Lian Garden. Please pick up your tickets at URBTIX outlets at other performance venues in advance.

Source of the above information: Hong Kong Arts Festival 2024 official website