Lesson 2

7.4

(B= Boy  L=Lucy)

B: So, Lucy, how was it? Did you enjoy your first Beijing Opera?

L: Yes, I certainly did! It was an excellent show...so colourful and exciting!

B: Great! I'm so glad you enjoyed it. I was worried because Beijing Opera is so different from theatre shows in the US.

L: It was very different, but in a good way! I loved the dancing and the acrobatics.

B: Me, too. The performers were so talented!

L: But there were quite a few things I didn't understand.

B: Sure. Maybe I can help.

L: Well, you know the part where the main character walks across the stage with a flag on each side of her? I had no idea what she was doing.

B: Oh, that means she's riding in a carriage. Simple movements in Beijing Opera often represent more complex actions,like riding a horse or rowing a boat

L: I see! It seems like so many aspects of Beijing Opera come from ancient traditions. I wish I knew more about them.

B: Don't worry! If you're interested, we can go and watch more Beijing Opera together. Maybe one day you'll be an expert!

L: Sure. I think you're referring to the fact that performers often sing with very high voices. This is because in the early days, Beijing Opera was usually performed on open-air stages. In order to be heard over the crowds, the music had to be loud and performers had to sing in very high voices.

P: Wow, I'm definitely learning something new here. I'm also interested in the beautiful costumes.

L: Oh, do you know why they're always in such bright colours?

P: No, why?

L: Well, in the past, Beijing Opera was often performed on stages that were lit only by oil lamps. The costumes had to have bright and colourful patterns. Otherwise, it would have been difficult to attract the audience's attention.

P: That's absolutely amazing. Thanks for sharing.