Huaibang Opera

With a history of 400 years, Huaibang Opera, commonly known as Huaiqing bangzi, is one of Chinese ancient operas. It was named after its birthplace, Huaiqingfu, the old name of Jiaozuo in the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. Both of its singing and speaking parts are performed in the Huaiqingfu dialect, with Central China phonology. Most Huaibang operas feature people’s daily life.

Huaibang Opera is essential in the daily life of people in Huaichuan including the cities and counties like Jiaozuo, Qinyang and Mengxian. It’s a way for them to express their emotions.

In May, 2006, Huaibang Opera was listed on the first batch of National Intangible Cultural Heritages.