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Sichuan Opera and Face Changes

Sichuan Opera 
Faces ChangesAs one of the major opera schools in China, the Sichuan Opera has a long history. It originated at the end of the Ming Dynasty and the beginning of the Qing Dynasty. At that time there were several different forms of popular theatre in Sichuan Province which gradually developed and blended with the local culture, finally merge into the present Sichuan Opera. Sichuan Opera is well-known in China, and is characterized by solo singing, skillful acting, rich percussion and incredibly funny comedies. Special characters use stunts such as quick face changes without makeup, jumping through burning hoops and hiding of swords. The magical face changes are particularly famous.

Face Changes
Face changing is the essence and highlight of Sichuan Opera. It is a kind of stunt which involves the on-stage change of mask or facial makeup, via masks or facial painting, without the audience noticing. It is amazing that, with a magical sweep of a hand, the actors can change their masks successively in an incredibly short time. Face changes first appeared 300 years ago. Initially the opera masters changed their face during a performance by blowing into a bowl of red, black or gold powder, which immediately stuck their oiled skiny. By the 1920s, actors began to use layers of masks made of oiled paper. During the performance, actors would peel off one after another in a very short time. Now, the masters use painted silk masks, which can be worn in layers. It is impressive to the audience.