Last night we had a pleasant surprise. We could hear opera coming from the little village right outside the school gate. What I had previously thought to be a communal toilet turned out to be a community hall in an old temple. The Qingtian opera company was putting on a performance paid for by the overseas Chinese community.

Heaps of oldies were sitting on pews having a listen and thoroughly enjoying the show. Little kids were running around, there was certainly a festive atmosphere.

The performers looked spectacular in their costumes and makeup. As far as the four styles of opera we've seen/heard this was by far the best, less ear torturing and without wanting to sound Bruce McAvaney I guess it was 'special' to watch it in a non-tourist setting.

Some pics from backstage and Jo with a cast member