Li Bao-chun Challenges Opera Classic with New Peking Opera "Love of Aida"
The Taipei New Chinese Opera Troupe announced that it will stage the new Peking Opera "Love of Aida," directed and starring Li Bao-chun, on May 23rd and 24th, 2026, at the Taipei City Stage. This production reinterprets Verdi's opera "Aida" as Peking Opera, emphasizing themes of love and righteousness, particularly the importance of family affection in Eastern culture. The event is organized by the Ku-Kung-Liang Culture and Education Foundation, with co-stars Kong Yue-ci, Li Long-xian, and Lin Zi-yin.
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- 📰 Published: April 13, 2026 at 20:21
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Central News Agency (Taipei, April 13) - Veteran Peking Opera performer Li Bao-chun leads the Taipei New Chinese Opera Troupe in presenting the newly adapted Peking Opera "Love of Aida." Li Bao-chun states that this new Peking Opera version emphasizes not only love but also "righteousness." The executive director of the Ku-Kung-Liang Culture and Education Foundation, Ku Huai-chun, noted at today's press conference that "Love of Aida" focuses on love beyond sacrifice, highlighting themes of affection and righteousness. Compared to the more pure, even impulsive, romantic love in the original Western opera, Ku Huai-chun explained that the Peking Opera version portrays Aida's deep concern for her country, her efforts to send her father back home, and her burden of national revitalization, which is full of "righteousness." The new Peking Opera "Love of Aida" shifts the stage setting from ancient Egypt to the Western Regions, centering on the protagonist Aida's "love" and depicting her entanglements and bonds between her father, lover, and rival, ultimately choosing love. Li Bao-chun serves as the playwright, director, and lead actor. Kong Yue-ci, Li Long-xian from Taipei New Chinese Opera Troupe, and musical soprano Lin Zi-yin co-star. Lyu Yu-yong is responsible for the vocal arrangements, and Zhong Yao-guang for the music composition. Ku Huai-chun emphasized that the Peking Opera version of Aida is not a girl blinded by love, but one whose love and family ties are intertwined. Li Bao-chun expressed that the play made him realize the importance of "family affection," reflecting on the lifelong connection between parents and children in Eastern culture. Verdi's "Aida" is a classic opera, and its adaptation into Peking Opera aims for an artistic shock that combines old and new, making the audience deeply moved. The music, composed by Zhong Yao-guang, maintains traditional Peking Opera tonality while incorporating Broadway elements to create a powerful theatrical impact. The performances are scheduled for May 23rd and 24th at Taipei City Stage.