Maker of new film on Peking Opera targets younger audience

When Peking Opera piece Cao Cao and Yang Xiu premiered at Tianjin People's Theater in 1988, it caused a sensation, thanks to top artists Shang Changrong and Yan Xingpeng's engaging performances.

But those who did not see that play have a chance to do so now, as Shang, 79, the first winner of Plum Performance Big Award, China's top honor for stage opera artists, and Yan, 65, who is settled in the United States, have reprised their roles for the big screen.

The 3D panoramic sound film, with the same title as the opera, opened across China on Aug 30 with English subtitles.