Chinese Opera Institute

Painted Skin

Originally written during the Qing Dynasty in the 17^th Century, Painted Skin uses narrative, dance and music to tell the story of a professor “bewitched” by a beautiful young girl. His wife becomes suspicious. The town priest sees him and immediately notices that he is under a spell.

One night the professor goes to his study only to find a hideous devil spreading a human skin upon the bed and painting it with a brush. The devil then gives the skin a shake, throws it over his shoulders and becomes the beautiful young girl. Terrified, the professor hurries away to find the priest.

“The play is still relevant to the contemporary world of internet and social networking because there are some dishonest people disguised with pretty masks.” ~ Opera director Shui Xiao Yan

Singapore performs during show blocks F and H with Poland and Tim Mooney from the USA. His one-man show "Moliere than Thou" has replaced Zimbabwe. 

Show Block F - Friday, 6/25 at 1:30 p.m. Purchase now.
Show Block H -Saturday, 6/26 at 2:00 p.m. Purchase now.