Liyuan Guild Hall-Chuan Opera Changing Face (wenshuyuan store)

During the Qing Dynasty, a new term emerged in Chinese opera history: the Pear Garden Guild. Opera has long been nicknamed "Pear Garden," with performers called "Pear Garden disciples." Originally serving as both a trade union and spiritual sanctuary for opera artists, this art form evolved into a gem of China's traditional arts and a vital folk cultural expression. With its diverse genres, captivating performances blending song, dance, dialogue, and martial arts—integrating singing, acting, recitation, and combat—Chinese opera stands uniquely distinguished in world theater history.

Liyuan Theater was co-founded by renowned Sichuan Opera dan role performer Hu Xuemei and entrepreneur Liao Xiaojian (a former Sichuan Opera actor). Located in Chengdu's Wenshu Fang central leisure tourism district, the theater originated after the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake. During that challenging period, it spontaneously organized "public benefit performances" to entertain opera enthusiasts, becoming a spiritual pillar for countless fans. The theater upholds the philosophy: "Live for yourself, perform for the audience."

Today's Liyuan Theater is not only the "Sichuan Opera Practice Base" recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage, but also collaborates with the Chengdu Charity Federation to establish a public welfare fund for Sichuan Opera heritage preservation, contributing to the cultural legacy. It pioneered the Family-friendly Sichuan Opera Special, attracting numerous families to experience and learn about this traditional art form.

The Pear Garden Theater specializes in Sichuan opera, upholding its reputation as "Sichuan opera showcasing the world." Here you can explore both frontstage and backstage, interact closely with artists, and enjoy diverse performances including face-changing, fire-spitting, rolling lamp acts, kung fu tea ceremonies, puppet shows, and shadow plays—immersing yourself in traditional cultural charm.

The Pear Garden Theater welcomes visitors with authentic Sichuan opera performances while hosting classic opera showcases from various regions and gathering extraordinary folk art performances, creating a cultural hub where domestic opera masters gather.

The Pear Garden Theater aims high, where you can enjoy performances, savor tea, and taste local delicacies. If you're a "theater enthusiast," you can dress up as a star performer here and experience the saying "one minute on stage takes ten years of practice off stage." If you're here out of "passion," welcome to join the "Pear Garden disciples" as we collectively preserve and promote Chinese opera culture.