The acclaimed Shangdang Bangzi Opera Theatre of Jincheng City will make its Hong Kong debut this August, bringing one of northern China's most distinctive regional opera traditions to audiences as part of the Chinese Culture Festival 2026 and the 14th Chinese Opera Festival.

Led by China Theatre Plum Blossom Award winner and national-level intangible cultural heritage bearer Chen Suqin, the troupe will present the classic “The Banquet at Sanguan” on August 14 at Hong Kong City Hall. The production tells a tragic story from the legendary Yang family saga, celebrating patriotism, loyalty and sacrifice through Shangdang Bangzi's soaring vocals, stylised movements and traditional percussion.

An evening of classic opera excerpts follows on August 15, featuring powerful arias alongside dynamic martial performances with signature techniques such as flips, hair flinging and weapon choreography.

Founded in 1938, the theatre is regarded as the leading Shangdang Bangzi troupe, performing more than 300 shows each year while preserving and revitalising the centuries-old art form. A public meet-the-artists session with Chen Suqin will be held on August 13, alongside a free educational performance for local students on August 15.