Other highlights of the festival include Luocha Haishi, a Gaojia Opera imagining a society where beauty and ugliness are inverted, leaving no one able to live a normal life. Gaojia Opera, which originated in the late Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), combines folk music, dance, and martial arts. Luocha Haishi uses humor and exaggerated performances to challenge societal norms while encouraging a deeper reflection on human existence.

Another major offering is Othello: Jealousy, a Puju Opera adaptation of Shakespeare's Othello, set in ancient China. The production reimagines the tragic tale of a jealous general, Luo Sai, whose misguided insecurities lead to the murder of his wife and his eventual downfall. This poignant exploration of emotional turmoil and the destructive power of jealousy demonstrates the universality of Shakespeare's themes, in a different cultural context.

"These productions offer a rare opportunity to experience the diverse and profound world of Chinese opera in its many forms," says Bai.

"Each performance tells stories that transcend time and culture — whether through humor, tragedy, or philosophical inquiry. The intimacy of a small theater amplifies the emotional resonance of these tales, allowing the audience to fully engage with the performances."

"In larger venues, you can sometimes lose that sense of closeness," Bai adds. "But in this space, we can see each other. We can feel each other. That's what keeps these stories alive — they are passed from one heart to another."

Contact the writer at chennan@chinadaily.com