A modern reconstruction of a mural depicting the Yuan zaju stage c. 1324. The original was found in the Guangsheng Temple of Shanxi province. [PD-US]
Zaju
1279-1368
Introduction
Zaju were Chinese poetic dramas set to music and are regarded by many as the golden age of Chinese drama. The genre was hugely popular during the Yuan dynasty (1279-1368) and was an important movement in the development of Chinese Opera. This guide explores the development of the artform, and its distinctive style and features. We also consider how Zaju has influenced contemporary theatre.
Terminology
- Dan: female roles in Zaju.
- Chou: clown roles in Zaju
- Chu: Zaju consisted of 4 acts (“chu”), consisting of a set of songs following a crucial moment in the plot.
- Dynasty: a succession of rulers from the same family.
- Jing: painted face roles in Zaju.
- Nanxi: an early form of Chinese opera.
- Sheng: male roles in Zaju.
- Song Dynasty: the ruling dynasty of China from 960 until 1279.
- Yuan Dynasty: a dynasty established by Mongol nomads who ruled part and eventually all of China from 1271 to 1368.
Key Dates & Events
- 960-1279 - Song dynasty.
- c.1226-1306 - Lifetime of Bai Renfu.
- c.1241-1320 - Lifetime of Guan Hanqinq.
- 1250-c.1337 - Lifetime of Wang Shifu.
- c.1250-1321 - Lifetime of Ma Zhiyuan.
- 1279-1368 - Yuan dynasty.
Context & Analysis
Although it is most associated with the Yuan dynasty, the origins of Zaju can be found in the earlier nanxi (‘southern drama’) of the Song dynasty (960-1279). However, the artform flourished under the Yuan dynasty and Zaju soon became a national drama.
Zaju literally means ‘variety theatre’ and performances combined traditional shi and ci poetry with the newly
to read our learning module for Zaju and to unlock other amazing theatre resources!StageAgent Resources
Links & Media
Quizzes
Alexandra Appleton
Writer, editor and theatre researcher