The Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe's president Wang Shiyu believes Kunqu Opera is beautiful beyond expression. The 72-year-old has been fascinated with the genre since he was 14. He still performs as a male lead and directs his own version of the classic Romance of the Western Chamber. The plotline surrounds two star-crossed Tang Dynasty (AD 618-907) lovers, whose parents disapprove of their relationship. Wang says the classic is a comedy and a tragedy, and his take focuses on the couple's love and different personalities.

7:30 pm, Dec 14. Mei Lanfang Grand Theater, 32 Ping'anlixi Dajie, Xicheng district, Beijing. 400-610-3721.

- Chen Nan