Exhibition commemorates Peking Opera figure's legacy

The University of Southern California is marking the 130th anniversary of the birth of Mei Lanfang, a legendary figure of Peking Opera, with a whirlwind exhibition tour through the United States.

The exhibition Reunion: Mei Lan-Fang and the United States at USC's East Asian Library also commemorates the 94th anniversary of Mei's historic visit to America. It explores a romantic narrative of connection, legacy and reunion — honoring Mei's lasting influence and the cultural ties that continue to bridge nations.

In early 1930, Mei embarked on a tour of the US, performing in cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Washington DC, and New York.

Few moments in history have brought the US and China closer than the six months Mei spent captivating American audiences with his Peking Opera performances, according to media reports.

Thousands filled theaters across the country to witness his art and many had the chance to meet him face to face at receptions, banquets and public gatherings.

The visit played a "groundbreaking" role in fostering cultural exchanges between China and the US, according to Li Shufeng, vice-president of the Chinese National Academy of Arts, the co-organizer of the exhibition at USC.

"This art exhibition is an effort to follow the path paved by our predecessors," Li said during the opening ceremony on Sept 13 at the USC East Asian Library. "It introduced American audiences to the beauty of Chinese opera and the richness of China's ancient cultural heritage, offering them a window into the country's long history."