A new production Turandot, directed by Jackie Chan, will open the 2026 Guangzhou Art Season with its world premiere, marking a major cultural moment for the city.
The production was unveiled on May 7 at the Guangzhou Opera House during a press briefing, where the cast, creative team, and organizers introduced the project and its vision.
To mark the 100th anniversary of Puccini's Turandot, the production will make its global debut from May 8 to 10 at the Guangzhou Opera House, before touring across China and later traveling to Italy for the 72nd Puccini Festival in July and August.
Poster for Turandot (Centenary Edition)
Best known internationally for his action films, including the Rush Hour series, Jackie Chan is directing an opera for the first time. His version brings together Western opera with elements inspired by Chinese martial arts and modern stage design, creating a cross-disciplinary interpretation of the classic work.
Conductor Enrique Mazzola called the production "a fantastic new interpretation," adding that the mix of martial arts, dance, singing, and orchestral music brings a new perspective to Puccini's century-old opera.
Conductor Enrique Mazzola
Press briefing of Turandot (Centenary Edition)
The production also reflects Guangzhou's growing cultural profile. The city is increasingly moving beyond being a stop on the touring circuit, positioning itself as a launch platform for major international productions.
Turandot has long been seen as a symbol of East-West cultural exchange. Set in an imagined China, Puccini's original opera includes the folk melody Mo Li Hua (Jasmine Flower). This new version retains the original score but places greater emphasis on Chinese cultural elements in its staging.
Those involved in the production noted that Puccini never visited China, but might have been moved to see the opera staged in the country that inspired it. They described the work as a cultural bridge between Italy and China, helping reshape how audiences understand the story. Producer Tian Hui also highlighted the use of new stage technology, including interactive design, as part of the production's innovation.
The cast and creative team of Turandot (Centenary Edition) pose for group photos at the press briefing.
As the opening event of the 2026 Guangzhou Art Season (May 8-July 31), Turandot leads a citywide programme of nearly 100 performances and 10 exhibitions, spanning opera, theatre, dance, and music across Guangzhou.
Performance Information
Turandot (Centenary Edition), directed by Jackie Chan
Guangzhou
Time: 7:30 pm, May 8-10 (Friday to Sunday)
Venue: Guangzhou Opera House
Address: No.1, Zhujiang West Road, Tianhe District
Duration: Approximately 170 minutes, including two 20-minute intervals
Ticket Prices: ¥1780, ¥1480, ¥1280, ¥1080, ¥880, ¥680, ¥480
Tickets: Scan the QR code below
*One ticket per person. Children under 1.2 meters in height are not admitted.
*Performed in Italian with Chinese and Italian surtitles.
Reporter: Li Muzi
Photo: Guangzhou Opera House
