Chinese opera star Zhang Huoding closes Meeting in Beijing arts festival

Actors and organizers take a group photo at the press release. [Photo by Zhang Xingjian/chinadaily.com.cn]

Renowned Chinese Peking Opera artist Zhang Huoding will present a classic show, Lady White Snake, on May 24 in Beijing, marking the 16th Meeting in Beijing arts festival's conclusion.

“Following last year's incredible box-office success both at home and abroad, Zhang Huoding is invited once again to offer a feast for the eyes at the closing ceremony, ” Zhang Yu, president of the China Arts and Entertainment Group, said at the latest press release on May 10.

“This year marks the 400th anniversary year of William Shakespeare and his Chinese counterpart, Tang Xianzu. It is a truth that the former is a renowned name worldwide, but Chinese theatre master Tang is barely known by many foreigners. Therefore, Chinese culture still has a long way to go before achieving significant influence across the globe,” Zhang said at the press release.

“However, we are delighted to see Zhang Huoding has had amazing success at the Lincoln Center in New York City last year. She is more than an artist but a unique cultural phenomenon to arouse the attention of influential western media including the New York Times. It is definitely a milestone in China’s culture going global,” Zhang added.