Shufeng Yayun Theater · Sichuan Opera Face-Changing Show · Grand Classical Chinese Theater

The Sichuan opera performance at Shufeng Yayun Sichuan Opera House in Chengdu is a dazzling gem in China’s theatrical treasure. This beloved folk art form is cherished by people across southwestern provinces like Sichuan, Yunnan, and Guizhou. Musically, Sichuan opera combines four major vocal styles – Gaoqiang, Kunqiang, Huqinqiang, and Ruoqiang – with local lantern theater. With the exception of lantern theater, all these styles were introduced to Sichuan by touring troupes from other provinces between the late Ming Dynasty and mid-Qing Dynasty.Sichuan Opera is a shining pearl in China’s treasure trove of traditional theater. This venue has gathered many renowned Sichuan Opera performers and recently reunited top talents from across the province to present nightly “Classic Opera and Folk Art Performances.”Established in 1998, the Liyuan Theater is rooted in the Land of Abundance and showcases authentic Western Sichuan folk arts and classic opera to audiences worldwide. It is a large multifunctional theater integrating traditional Chinese art performances, unique folk stunt shows, and opera props. The “Shufeng Yayun” Sichuan specialty performance combines the essence of Ba-Shu performing arts, featuring Three Kingdoms culture and Sichuan folk stunts like Sichuan opera, face-changing, fire-spitting, puppetry, tea art, and rolling lantern shows—a true gem of Shu culture. With timeless elegance spanning centuries, the theater is located in Chengdu’s Qintai Ancient Path near the Qingyang Palace historic complex, adjacent to the renowned Qingyang Taoist Temple and within proximity to Du Fu Thatched Cottage and Wuhou Shrine. The architecture reflects ancient Western Sichuan’s rustic charm, having been a century-old theater with fluctuating fortunes. Long a gathering place for Sichuan opera masters, it remains one of Sichuan’s most culturally profound folk theaters. The theater’s gongs, drums, and flutes convey artistry beyond words, while its ensemble performances bring together quintessential melodies and all opera role types—sheng, dan, jing, mo, and chou—alongside kunqu, gaokun, huqin, tanxi, and other styles. Experience authentic Sichuan opera stunts like face-changing, fire-spitting, and costume transformations, as well as nationally acclaimed rolling lantern shows and shadow puppetry. Marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship of rod puppetry and the stirring traditional music that lingers in memory. One evening, a millennium of Shu culture—welcome to this unforgettable experience.This venue was once a renowned Sichuan Opera performers’ guild hall that gathered celebrated artists. In recent years, it has reunited top performers from across Sichuan to present nightly “Classic Opera and Folk Art Performances.” Its reputation has soared, attracting widespread media coverage both domestically and internationally. In the blink of an eye, it has revived the golden era of traditional theater, with lingering melodies that transport audiences. The cultural legacy of Western Shu thrives here in unparalleled form. Face-changing, fire-spitting, and rolling-lantern acts are nationally acclaimed, while rod puppetry showcases divine craftsmanship and exquisite skills. The delicate tunes of Qingyin (female vocal art) captivate beyond words. The plucking of guqin strings whisks listeners back to the Three Kingdoms era, while the erhu’s melodies transform fleeting clouds and changing times. The long-lost art of shadow puppetry has returned to the public, accompanied by soul-stirring drum ensembles and boundless joy. With lofty aspirations, this theater aims to revive Sichuan folk arts, bringing lost cultural treasures back to teahouses and reuniting master performers with local communities. Today, it stands as a vibrant folk culture guild hall where artists gather and opera enthusiasts visiting Chengdu make their pilgrimage.