Monkey King antics inspire opera performance for young

The show, directed by Bai Ailian of the Jingju Theater Company of Beijing, revolves around Xuanzang and his entourage fighting a battle equipped with wisdom and courage against two monsters.

Actors of the Beijing theater company and the China National Peking Opera Company took part in the performance, characterized by elaborate movements, extravagant makeup and interaction with members of the young audience.

"Many parents are keen for their children to learn something about traditional Chinese art forms, such as Peking Opera. With well-known stories from Journey to the West, children soon become intrigued and interested," says Bai, who works with her friend, director Cheng Sibo, on the show.

Bai, herself a mother, says it was the first time she has directed a Peking Opera show for children.