Hu Guang Guildhall

Theatres have a tradition of embodying the spirit of the past performances they staged. The Globe in London, despite its heavily reconstructed nature, seeps Shakespeare from every pore.

Hu Guang Guildhall is the Peking Opera equivalent, and its exquisite half-timbre structure houses the whispers of performances from the likes of opera legend Mei Lanfang, who graced the stage after it was first built in 1807, when Peking opera was still in its early stages of development.

The interior is elaborately decorated and performances from an experienced troupe still go on to this day. In recognition of its contribution to Peking Opera, the hall nowalso houses an opera museum, with many curious artifacts such as masks and other accoutrements associated with this art form.

Those looking for a quirky gift can pick up masks, wooden swords or crowns like those used in the performances, but it’s worth taking in a show to really drink in the atmosphere and appreciate the significance of the building. Simon Fowler