4. Peking Opera  Hongxian Steals the Casket

1. Origin of the Work

Who created this piece?

Hongxian Steals the Casket is adapted from the legendary Chinese tale The Legend of Hongxian, drawn from the fantastical stories of the Tang dynasty.
The stage version was reworked by Qi Rushan and premiered in Beijing in 1918 by the great Peking Opera master Mei Lanfang.

Originally performed in Kunqu opera, where Hongxian appeared as a fairy-like figure, the story evolved on the Peking Opera stage into an iconic portrayal of a chivalric heroine. This transformation places strong emphasis on movement, dance, and martial expression.

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2. Story and Plot

What feat does Hongxian accomplish?

The story takes place in the late Tang dynasty, a turbulent era marked by warfare among military warlords. As a major conflict looms, a seemingly ordinary maid named Hongxian makes a daring decision.

In a single night, she travels more than 700 kilometers, infiltrates the enemy camp alone, and silently steals a golden casket placed beside the opposing general’s pillow—without being discovered.

Confronted with this astonishing and stealthy act, the enemy is struck with fear at Hongxian’s extraordinary skill and abandons the attack, choosing peace instead.

This is not merely a theft, but a solitary act capable of altering the course of history.

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3. Costumes and Props

Red as more than an aesthetic choice

The red costume
Inspired by Tang dynasty legends and imagery of chivalric women, this costume was designed by Mei Lanfang himself. It features a fitted jacket, narrow sleeves, a defined waist, and red night trousers decorated with cloud motifs.
Breaking away from traditional court costumes, it became a visual reference for martial heroines in Peking Opera.
The color red allows the audience to follow Hongxian in dimly lit scenes and symbolizes loyalty, courage, and justice.

Scale armor
This stylized female armor is embroidered with silk and metallic threads, adorned with sequins and red tassels. Under the stage lights, it enhances the character’s nobility and bravery.

The cloud whisk (Fuchen)
Light and seemingly harmless, this prop is nevertheless essential. It suggests speed, direction, and rhythm.
More than a weapon, it embodies Hongxian’s controlled elegance—discreet, precise, and formidable.

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4. Role Type

Who is Hongxian?

Hongxian is neither a traditional qingyi nor a classic daomadan.
She represents a hybrid role: the refined spirit of literary theatre combined with the physical mastery of martial performance.
A singular heroine, often described as a “celestial knight-errant.”

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5. Why Is This Piece So Captivating?

Hongxian Steals the Casket is a work where the body tells the story.
There are very few direct confrontations; everything unfolds through movement, infiltration, stillness, and tension.

No prior knowledge of Peking Opera is required to appreciate the piece.
Simply follow Hongxian’s movements and ask yourself three questions:

• Is she moving quickly or slowly?

• Is she tense or relaxed?

• Is she hiding—or advancing?

If you can feel her rhythm, you have already entered the story.

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6. Performer

Qiujing Ren — Hongxian
Actress with the Peking Opera Arts Center of Québec.
Born into a family passionate about Peking Opera, she began her training at the age of six under her father’s guidance.
Since 2020, she has continued her studies with renowned masters and regularly participates in major productions of the center.
Her notable roles include Farewell My Concubine, The Heavenly Maiden Scatters Flowers, and Hongxian Steals the Casket.