Step into the vibrant world of Mei Lanfang, the 20th-century’s greatest performer of Peking Opera, whose sensational 1930 American tour forever changed the landscape of modern theater. In celebration of China Institute’s centennial, The Dancing Goddess: Mei Lanfang in America revisits this milestone of Sino-American cultural exchange, a pivotal moment sponsored by the Institute itself. Discover how Mei Lanfang, through a revolutionary fusion of song, dance, and psychological acting, captivated American audiences and inspired artists from Broadway to Hollywood. The exhibition will feature an extraordinary collection of his revolutionary stage costumes, rare photographs, original production materials, and artworks that illuminate his creative genius. Join us to experience the story of an artist who bridged cultures, a legacy that embodies China Institute’s century-long mission of fostering a deeper understanding of China through art, education, and culture.
Image: Photograph from the opera Farewell, My Concubine, performed in the U.S. ©Chinese National Academy of Arts
