Jingju Makeup and Costume Workshop

Have you ever seen a jingju (Beijing opera, Peking opera) performance or other forms of classical Chinese theatre? Were you confused about the stark contrast between the minimalist scenery/set and the extreme complexity of makeup/costume? There are specific rules for makeup and costume based on the distinctive role types; colors and patterns also have symbolic meanings. Applying theatrical makeup, putting on headdress, multi-layered costume, and footwear is a laborious and often painful process. And yet, this is where the magic begins.

You are invited to a “behind the scene” workshop and have a close look of the makeup and costuming process of the jingju tradition. We will start with a brief introduction of various role types and their costume conventions. There is also a small collection of costume, headdress/wigs, footwear, and props on display. Jingju actor Po Cheng Chu will demonstrate the makeup and costuming tradition for a martial male character which he will perform in the event at 1:30pm (Intercultural Shakespeare with Jingju).

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