As for the future, Li Xiangkui, one of the actors in his 30s, describes it best when he says: "Young audiences have the impression that folk operas are outdated and something very old. But when we perform at universities in China, especially in Beijing, the students like it and are curious about it.

"I don't think the audiences have any barriers when it comes to understanding the art form."

And as Dai, 73, a veteran composer, who had been with the troupe since 1972, says: "We devoted our lives to Quju and we don't want it to die."

If you go

Beneath the Red Banner, 7:30 pm, Feb 1 and 2.

Huang Ye Hong Lou, 7:30 pm, Feb 3 and 4.

Fang Zhenzhu, 7:30 pm, Feb 5 and 6.

All staged at Tianqiao Theater. No 30, Beiweilu Street, Xicheng District, Beijing. 400-610-3721.