Beijing Opera: The Red-maned Steed

A beloved Beijing Opera classic performed and cherished for generations, The Red-maned Steed is a signature masterpiece of the influential Tan School, celebrated for its rich vocal style and vivid character portrayals. Originating in the mid-Qing Dynasty, it tells the tale of warrior Xue Pinggui’s reunion with his loyal wife after 18 years of exile, and his triumph over treachery to claim the throne. The play strikes a chord with audiences by embodying folk aspirations for unwavering loyalty, justice over tyranny, and heartfelt family reunion, cementing its timeless popularity.

Having been away from home for 18 years, XUE Pinggui returns from the Western Liang Regime, and meets his wife WANG Baochuan at Wujiapo. However, his wife does not recognise him. So XUE Pinggui pretends to ask the way to sound her out, but in vain. After that, he runs after her and hurries into her shabby cottage, where they tell each other what happens after parting. Thus they have a reunion. At WANG Yun’s birthday party, XUE asks WANG Yun and WEI Hu to pay 18 years’ military salary to him. Later, WANG Yun usurps the throne and wants to kill XUE Pinggui. He escapes, and WANG Yun asks GAO Siji to pursue him. Princess Daizhan receives a carrier pigeon from XUE Pinggui and knows that he is in danger. So, she rushes to rescue him with troops. Being defeated, GAO Siji surrenders and helps XUE deliver a counterattack against the city of Chang’an. They win victory. XUE Pinggui ascends to the throne. He demotes WANG Yun, beheads WEI Hu, and makes WANG Baochuan and Princess Daizhan empresses. Then, he invites WANG Baochuan’s mother for a reunion.

Date: Feb 18, 2026

Location: Theatre, 2 Xichang’an Street, Xicheng District, Beijing