World-Renowned Peking Opera Masters Li Shengsu and Yu Kuizhi Lead Lunar New Year Celebration in Toronto
TORONTO, ON — Toronto audiences are invited to celebrate the Lunar New Year and welcome the Year of the Horse with an extraordinary evening of Peking Opera, presented by the China National Peking Opera House as part of its Canadian tour.
Taking place on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 7:30 PM at Toronto’s historic Winter Garden Theatre, this special performance stars two of the world’s most celebrated contemporary Peking Opera artists—Yu Kuizhi and Li Shengsu—alongside more than 30 elite performers, including a full Peking Opera orchestra.
Internationally recognized as leading exponents of the art form, Yu and Li represent the highest artistic standard of Peking Opera, a theatrical tradition with a history spanning more than two centuries. Audiences will experience the full richness of the genre through elaborate costumes, powerful and expressive vocals, refined movement, and dynamic storytelling.
Highlights of the evening include iconic repertoire from The Story of Lady Taizhen (Taizhen Waizhuan) and The Palace of Eternal Life (Changsheng Dian)—masterworks inspired by the legendary Tang-dynasty love story of Emperor Tang Minghuang and his consort Yang Yuhuan. In this exceptional production, Yu, a revered master of the laosheng (senior male) role, delivers a dignified and deeply moving portrayal of the emperor, while Li, one of the foremost dan (female role) performers of her generation, brings elegance, emotional depth, and lyrical beauty to the role of Yang Yuhuan. Together, their performances exemplify the pinnacle of Peking Opera artistry.
Presented as part of the global “Happy Chinese New Year” celebrations, this performance honors tradition while embracing renewal, vitality, and new beginnings—values closely associated with the Year of the Horse. Whether discovering Peking Opera for the first time or returning as a longtime admirer, this rare Toronto appearance promises an unforgettable cultural experience performed by true masters of the art.
Event Details
Show: Enchanting China Peking Opera
Time: Friday, February 13, 2026 · 7:30 PM
Location: Winter Garden Theatre, 189 Yonge Street, Toronto
Tickets: Now on sale via Ticketmaster
Media contact: shanqiaoattaoui@gmail.com
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