While in China, I hope to attend some performances of traditional arts, and would welcome some input

Beijing Opera: I read a very helpful thread on this board about Beijing Opera (thank you, PeterN_H!). That thread dates from Sept. ’09 – anything new to consider since then?

Shanxi opera: How does Shanxi opera differ from Beijing opera? I might have the opportunity to see Shanxi opera in either Xi’an or Wutai Shan, but I’m not sure whether it would be sufficiently different to my uneducated ear.

Puppet theater: I believe I might be able to see puppet theater in either Xi’an or Beijing. Is there anything I should consider when deciding?

Acrobatics: Again, I think I should be able to see acrobats in either Xi’an or Beijing. Is there anything I should consider when deciding? In Beijing, are there performances or venues that are better (or worse) than others?

Kung fu. I’m least likely to seek out a performance of kung fu; if I do, it would be in Beijing. Any comments or recommendations?

As always, any thoughts will be much appreciated!

anyone?

Seems that no one has responded to my last few queries - I hope I haven't inadvertently given offense! I would welcome the input of those of you who know China. . . .

I don't think you've offended anyone, but certainly I didn't have any useful input. I saw Beijing opera and Shanghai acrobatics back in '97, and a cultural display for tourists in Xi'an in '04 (I skipped the meal). I preferred the acrobatics to the opera, but I'm almost tone deaf. I draw your attention to the screen name of the poster who did respond.

We went to the Huanggang Guild Hall for the Beijing Opera as recommended by our guide book and PeterN_H. The theater was very small and cozy and there were not many people there. I am not sure how they survive. It was beautiful and colorful. The most expensive seats include tea and snacks. The snacks are not much, but the seats were great. There are 6 people to a table and we had a table front and center to ourselves. While in Beijing I googled Huanggang Guild Hall and ordered tickets by phone from "Rita".

Peter said in another post that Shanghai is the place for acrobats. Our hotel concierge in Shanghai was clueless so we went to the Renaissance and had their concierge sell us the tickets. I really didn't know where to go or what was playing so we took what he gave us. The theater is off of Fuxing Rd. It was very good. We went to the 5:15 show. They also have a 7:30 but it was sold out the day we wanted to go. No interest in puppets and one opera was enough.

Thank you, thursdaysd and sdtravels!

Huguang. Not Huanggang.

http://www.huguangguildhall.com/

Here is the web site for the discount tickets. I used a different one that I can't find now.

Thanks again!