This episode of the Monkey King is adapted from the ancient Chinese novel "Journey to the West". The legendary figure, the Monkey King is a martial arts adept and the leader of a band of "mortal" monkeys living on Mt. Huaguo, where the Monkey King has installed himself as monarch. To subdue the mischievous Monkey King and win his allegiance, the Jade Emperor summons him to Heaven. While touring the Peach Garden the Monkey King learns that the Jade Emperor is hosting a peach ball but excludes him. He is further humiliated when being looked down upon by the celestial court ladies. The enraged Monkey King unexpectedly ascends to heaven to steal the Peach of Immortality and Elixir of Eternal Life, rocking the entire celestial court. In retaliation, the Jade Emperor sends his Celestial Generals and their troops to wage war against the self-appointed sovereign of the Monkey King. The Monkey King and his monkey soldiers furously defend themselves. They conquer the celestial troops and celebrate their glorious victory at Mt. Huaguo.
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One unique feature of this opera is the actors' recreation of the facial expressions and movements of primates in the wild, as well as the Monkey King's amusing imitation of human behavior. On stage, certain movements are exaggerated to contrast sadness and happiness, anguish and hilarity. Besides the traditional opera's singing, dancing and acting, this opera is also full of acrobatic, tumbling, and sword and spear fighting scenes. In addition, the quickness and prowess of the Monkey King maneuvering his magic Golden Staff is another highlight of this opera. The Monkey King has long been a favorite of the Chinese opera repertoire, enjoyed by a huge audience, young and old alike.
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