Cross-dressing sensation marches on despite controversies

Clad in a long red cape and white robe, Chinese singer Li Yugang showed up at a five-star hotel in downtown Beijing recently. With delicate makeup and his short hair neatly combed back, he walked onto the stage, holding a traditional Chinese musical instrument, pipa, a four-stringed, pear-shaped lute.

He was ready to showcase the classic image of Wang Zhaojun, an ancient Chinese beauty from the Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 220).

The 40-year-old singer has come a long way since the day he made a name for himself through his unique cross-dressing performances. Now, he is known for playing female roles and his performances combine traditional Peking Opera and pop music.