Cheers and surprising jeers

For the first time in my memory, a Western-style performance in China was met with thunderous cheers and loud jeers that recalled the spontaneity of an opera audience in Italy.

Beijing's Giant Egg, formally known as the National Center for the Performing Arts, was filled with the air of Parma on Thursday night.

Parma is known for its tough audience, who never hides their joy or displeasure at a performance.