Among the many Chinese New Year celebrations, perhaps the one seasonal presentation that can't be missed is a performance of Peking Opera. The Mei Lanfang Grand Theater is a venue providing a wide selection of local operas. An evening opera gala recently brought together multiple generations of artists that performed to a packed house.

Peking Opera buffs of all ages swarmed into the theater, braving the sub-freezing temperature outside.

They were here for the big opera night, consisting of classic Peking Opera arias by multiple generations of artists. Gracing the stage were including Mei Baojiu, Feng Zhixiao, Ye Shaolan, Li Weikang and Geng Qichang.

Signature pieces from both traditional programs like "The Drunken Concubine," and modern pieces such as "The Legend of Red Lantern" combined to bring out the beauty and grace of the age-old art form.

Audience member said "My son bought me a ticket to the show, as a new year gift. I love Peking Opera very much!"

Audience member said "I came from Wuhan for tonight's show. I hope there could be more policies supporting national opera troupes and providing them with more performing opportunities."

The year-end opera season has become part of the most cherished New Year memories of holiday revellers. As the Publicity Department of the Theater Liu Meng introduces, a variety of shows are tailored for opera buffs in the months to come.

Liu Meng, Publicity Department of Mei Lanfang Grand Theater said "We've tailored a wide variety of opera shows in the new year season, including both traditional programs and modern pieces. There are concerts of classic opera arias by national art troupes, and a night dedicated to late Peking Opera master Xi Xiaobo. More to come during the Spring Festival holiday."

In November, Peking Opera was inscribed by UNESCO as part of the world's intangible cultural heritage.

To add fuel to the festive atmosphere, a string of modern Peking Opera performances will be presented at the Mei Lanfang Grand Theater during the Chinese lunar new year, all by emerging artists born in the 1980s.