Qinqiang is the typical opera of Shaanxi province. It is the oldest of all the Chinese operas that are still in existence today. It is said that the opera was called "the Emperor Qin Shihuang 's Opera" during the Tang period and was later renamed Qinqiang Opera, which boasts the most ancient, affluent, and largest musical system of all Chinese operas.
History
The opera first originated from local folk songs and dance forms in the Yellow River Valley of Shaanxi and Gansu Province-- the birthplaces of Chinese culture. As an opera art form, Qinqiang evolved in ancient China's political, economic, and cultural center - Chang'an -- with the persistent efforts of the local people over generations.
Different versions reveal that Shaanxi Opera possibly originated in the Qin, the Han, the Tang, the Jin, the Ming or the Qing dynasties, but the Tang seems most likely to the the answer. It is said that Emperor Xuan Zong, Li Longji, once set up an institute called “Liyuan” for performer training. Royal music and folk songs were taught there. Once the musician Li Guinian composed a program “ The First Qin Emperor Breaks through Round-ups”. The program was later called “ Emperor Qin's Opera”, or “ Qin Opera”. Poems in the Song Dynasty also posed their influence on Shaanxi Opera, and bettered both its content and style. As a matter of fact, Shaanxi Opera is well worthy of the name “ancestor of all Chinese local operas”.
The Characteristics of Qinqiang
There are generally two kinds of arias in Qinqiang Opera: huan yin欢音 (joyous tune) and ku yin苦音 (sad tune). Each type is used in accordance with the plots and figures. The major accompanying instrument used is the ban hu (a stringed instrument), featuring a clear and melodious sound.
Qinqiang performances are characterized by a simple, bold, exquisite and penetrating, yet exaggerated style. The roles are categorized into 13 types, namely, four types of sheng 生(male roles in traditional Chinese opera), six dan 旦(female characters), two jing 净(painted-face characters), and one chou (clown).
Qinqiang Opera songs are sonorous, bold, and touching; its music is colorful and elegant; and its performances on the whole are plain, exquisite, and lively. Furthermore, it boasts such unique performing skills as spitting fire and hat dances by the performers.
Facial Make-up of Qingqiang
秦腔脸谱
秦腔脸谱
What appeals to foreigners most might be the different styles of facial make-up, which is one of the highlights of Chinese opera and requires distinctive techniques of painting. Exaggerated designs are painted on each performer's face to symbolize a character's personality, role, and fate. This technique may have originated from ancient religions and dance. Audiences who are familiar with opera can know the story by observing the facial painting as well as the costumes. Generally, a red face represents loyalty and bravery; a black face, valor; yellow and white faces, duplicity; and golden and silver faces, mystery.
Where You can Appreciate Qingqiang
If you want to see the real thing, there are often performances on at the Changan Grand Theatre in Xian（长安大戏院）. Locals also practice their singing in the parks and down by the river! The old city walls（城墙角） are another popular stage !
China is much emphasized in protecting the ancient intangible heritage. In 2006, the State Council enlisted Qinqiang to Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage.
