Imperial-themed theatrical banquets for tourists gain popularity in China
Imperial-themed theatrical banquets are spreading in cities across China, combining costumed programs, performances and multi-course dinners, and attracting a growing number of foreign tourists. This was reported by ECNS.
Participants are offered the chance to dress up as Chinese nobility, have traditional makeup applied and take their seats in sets styled as an imperial palace. The evening program begins with an address by an actor playing the emperor and the entrance of the empress. During the meal, guests are served wine and dishes, while musical, dance and martial performances take place between courses.
Cost and formats
A basic ticket costs about 200 yuan, or approximately $30. An additional 100 yuan is charged for a costume and makeup, and the same amount for a front-row seat. A full service package is estimated at about 500 yuan, or $70.
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The programs vary depending on the city. In Luoyang, Henan Province, the banquet is dedicated to Wu Zetian, China’s only female emperor. It uses Tang Dynasty styling: performers wear red or green ruqun, traditional outfits consisting of a blouse and skirt, and floral decorations on their foreheads. The show also includes aerial dances on wires.
Historical images and menu
In Chengdu, the program covers the eras of the Han, Tang and Song dynasties. The dressing rooms are designed as a “Costume Bureau,” and guests can choose the image of one of the Twelve Flower Goddesses, the Four Great Beauties, or the literary figures Li Bai, Du Fu and Su Dongpo.
Beijing has an imperial cuisine museum, where exhibitions tell the history of court gastronomy. The menu includes dishes that, according to the publication, were served to Qing dynasty emperors Kangxi and Qianlong. One banquet includes more than a dozen dishes, including braised pork, roasted lamb ribs, braised beef and yellow croaker. Rich soups are also served, including ones made with salted pork and bamboo shoots, as well as “Buddha Jumps Over the Wall.”
