10 masterpieces in traditional Peking Opera repertoire

A River All Red is staged in Jilin, Jilin province, May 14, 2016. [Photo/VCG]

4. A River All Red

A River All Red tells the story of Yue Fei, a hero who fought against invading troops during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279). Yue is one of the most famous generals in China's history and a legend of resolute loyalty to his country and allegiance to his people.

The opera opens with Yue's heroic battle against enemies from the north, which leads to his imprisonment, caused by the aspersion of Qin Hui, a treacherous court official. Many details of the opera are derived from official historical records of the Southern Song Dynasty. In the end, Yue is killed by Qin, but other patriotic generals carry out his will and save the country.

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