Backstage with an heir to the Peking Opera throne
By Globaltimes.cn, Published: 2016-08-16 18:54:57
Hu puts on a hairnet before doing his makeup for the Peking Opera classic Beauty Defies Tyranny at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing on August 13. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Editor's Note:
As a recognized heir to the Mei school of the art of Peking Opera nandan (men in female roles in traditional Chinese theater), Hu Wenge has had his hands full ever since his mentor Mei Baojiu, a Peking Opera master and the youngest son of the world-renowned stage legend Mei Lanfang, passed away at 82 in April.

Hu powders his face. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu applies rouge to his face. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu pencils his eyebrows. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu pencils his eyebrows. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu pencils his eyebrows. Photo: Li Hao/GT
An actor talks with Hu in the makeup room. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu often takes a few bites of an apple before performing to wet his throat. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu puts on the headband he uses to hold his wig in place. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu often takes a few bites of an apple before performing to wet his throat. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu’s makeup artist helps him to attach his wig. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu in his performance attire. Photo: Li Hao/GT
A costume designer dresses Hu. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu practices his craft offstage. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu changes costume between acts with the help of his makeup artist. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu paints his nails prior to a performance. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Hu applies lipstick. Photo: Li Hao/GT