subject: Tianjin Opera Museum - Discovering Chinese Opera In Tianjin [print this page] The Tianjin Opera Museum showcases the proud traditions of Chinese opera that have been the pride of the nation for almost 2000 years. The history of Chinese opera can be traced back to the third century when troupes usually put on shows for the emperor and his court. The Chinese opera has numerous regional differences and among them the Beijing opera is the best known.
Traditional Chinese string and percussion instruments provide the musical backing to the actors during their performances. Chinese opera is characterized by its elaborate and complex gestures which denote the action the actor is performing; different hand movements indicate actions such as riding, running or walking. Another intrinsic feature of the opera is its heavy make-up which adds to the personality of the character.
The Tianjin Opera Museum which is located in the southern districts of the municipality is a treasure trove of information for those interested in Chinese culture. The museum was previously known as the Guangdong Guildhall which was used to host business meetings and various other conventions. Chinese Guildhalls usually contained theaters to keep the businessmen entertained while they engaged in business talk. The hall was built in the year 1907 and was the last of its kind to be built. Therefore it is apt that it today houses the Tianjin Opera Museum. The architecture of the building is said to mirror that of a swan and the lake in front of the museum to be a Swan Lake.
The museum houses a collection or rare historical artifacts connected with the traditions of Chinese opera as well as numerous cultural relics. But by far the most stunning feature of the museum is its architecture with some historians even comparing it to the symbolism associated with the modern Sydney Opera House.
Located close to the heart of the city, a hotel in Tianjin such as Raffles Tianjin offers you great access to most cultural highlights such as the museum. A business hotel Tianjin which is located to close to the commercial heart of the city is a good choice for a traveler that wishes to enjoy the modern delights of Tianjin as well as its cultural richness.
