ArtStart

12:30pm: Masks

Beijing Opera Masks

Beijing opera has been the entertainment of emperors and important officials since the 18th century in China. It combines singing, mime, dance and acrobatics, as well as elaborate face painting known as lianpu. The exaggerated facial expressions and colors signal character traits to the audience, for example, yellow for evil, red for courage, blue for fierceness. Learn about this fascinating tradition with artist Julie Boada, and then create your own dramatic opera mask.

2:15pm: Dance

Traditional to Modern Chinese Dance

Discover the elegance of traditional Chinese dances, including the graceful ribbon dance—where long, colorful ribbons flow through the air. Then, blend these classical movements with modern styles to create your own choreography. Taught by veteran dancers and educators Xiaohong Chen and Christopher Yaeger, who have performed with local Chinese troupes for over twenty years.

For ages 9 – 12.