From May 8 to 10, the centennial edition of "Turandot", with international kung fu star Jackie Chan making his opera directing debut, is making its world premiere at the Guangzhou Opera House as the opening performance of the 2026 Guangzhou Art Season.
Marking 100 years since Giacomo Puccini's iconic opera first premiered, the new production reimagines "Turandot" through a fusion of Italian opera, Chinese kung fu, dance, and cinematic stage design. By blending martial arts aesthetics with orchestral music and modern stage technology, it brings fresh vitality to the century-old classic.
Conductor Enrique Mazzola described Jackie Chan's vision of combining martial arts, dance, singing, and symphonic music as "a genius idea", saying the production creates a new way to tell a 100-year-old story.
Producer Tian Hui explained that kung fu in this version is no longer simply about fight scenes, but becomes a medium for expressing the story of "Turandot" and the inner worlds of its characters. Together with the executive director, Jackie Chan choreographed the martial arts elements throughout the opera.
Executive Director Virginio Levrio also highlighted the deep Chinese influence already embedded in Puccini's original score, noting that the composer incorporated instruments and melodies from Chinese culture when writing "Turandot".
For the creative team, staging the centennial edition of "Turandot" in China carries special meaning. Producer Tian Hui said bringing the production to China feels like "fulfilling Puccini's dream".
As the grandeur of Italian opera meets the strength and philosophy of Chinese kung fu, the Eastern and Western aesthetics within "Turandot" are being reborn through fusion and artistic exchange on the stage of Guangzhou.
Related News: Jackie Chan's Turandot to open 2026 Guangzhou Art Season in world premiere
Reporter: Li Fangwang
Photo: Li Fangwang
Camaraman: Li Fangwang, Li Muzi
Video editor: Li Fangwang
Poster: Li Fangwang
