Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) is set to bring Peking Opera to Austin with two performances at The Long Center on July 26 and 27. The event will feature “Three Excerpts of Peking Opera” on Saturday, July 26, at 7:30 p.m., and “Monkey King Fights the Skeleton Demon” on Sunday, July 27, at 2:30 p.m. These performances are presented by Taipei Li-Yuan and hosted by Xiang Yun Temple, Austin Chinese American Network, and Texas CSA.
Peking Opera combines regional styles with Beijing flair and includes dramatic costumes, stylized movements, music, action, romance, comedy, and acrobatics. Xiang Yun Temple Venerable JueJi said, “This is more than a performance — it is a living legacy of Chinese civilization, now shared with Austin.”
The origins of Peking Opera date back to 1790 when opera troupes from Anhui and Hubei performed for the Qing Emperor’s birthday in Beijing. Their captivating performances became a cultural staple in the palace.
On July 26, the program will include “Farewell My Concubine,” “The Little Cowherd,” and “The Golden Falcon.” Each piece tells a unique story ranging from love and tragedy to light-hearted musical encounters. On July 27, “Monkey King Fights the Skeleton Demon” will narrate Monk Tang’s journey westward where he encounters challenges from the Skeleton Demon.
Lily Zhou of BLIA expressed that this event represents an opportunity for cultural exchange: “As a cultural ambassador representing BLIA, I see the arrival of Peking Opera in Austin as an extraordinary opportunity to foster mutual understanding and appreciation between cultures.”
BLIA is an international organization focused on Humanistic Buddhism principles such as equality and social progress. The association aims to improve health, safety, education, and economic well-being within communities.
