Tradition, Technique & Transformation: Taiwan’s Contemporary Legend Theatre in Performance
Friday, January 16th, 2026
3:00 PM – 5 PM ET
In-person Event
University Student Center (USC) Room 309
800 21st Street Northwest
Washington, DC 20052
Join us for an electrifying exploration of classical Chinese theatre through the artistry of three master performers from Taiwan’s renowned Contemporary Legend Theatre: Howie Po-Cheng Chu (wusheng/martial combatant), Yi Yuan Lin (hualian/painted-face warrior), and Wei Chuan Chang (wuchou/comic).
In this immersive performance and workshop, these internationally acclaimed artists will demonstrate the technical sophistication, physical precision, and cultural significance of classical Chinese opera performance—from acrobatic combat sequences and intricate facial painting conventions to comedic timing rooted in centuries of theatrical tradition. Participants will have the opportunity to learn foundational movement techniques and gain insight into how Contemporary Legend Theatre’s innovative approaches to classical forms have earned recognition worldwide.
Whether you’re interested in performance studies, martial arts, visual culture, Asian theatre, or simply experiencing one of the world’s most captivating performance traditions, this event offers an accessible yet rigorous introduction to a living classical art form. All are welcome—no prior experience necessary.
About the Performers
Yiyuan Lin specializes in the chou (clown) role, with particular expertise in martial chou performance (wu chou). In 2019, he formally became a disciple of Shi Xiaoliang, first-class chou role master with the Tianjin Youth Beijin Opera Troupe. His repertoire includes: Qibu Wenttan Shiqian Dao Jia, Da Gua Yuan, San Cha Kou, Dao Yin Hu, Dang Ma, Jie Shan, Nao Long Gong, among others. Performance credits include: Taiwan tour of Water Margi 108 (2018-2019), Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Avigno Off Festival production of Hero Wu Song (2018-2019) Sibiu Arts Festival production of Faust, Shanghai production of Waiting for Godot, and other domestic and international performances.
Weiquan Zhang specializes in the jing (painted-face) role an is a graduate of the National Taiwan College of Performing Arts. His extensive repertoire includes both classical pieces and experimental works. He won first place in the youth division of the Meng Xiaodong Beijing Opera Competition in 2022. His performance credits include starring roles in Contemporary Legend Theatre’s productions such as Water Margin 108: Tale of Quelling the Bandits, The Woman of Loulan, The Quee Mother of the West, and Caesar, as well as immersive theatre productions and the Legendary Theatre: Art Decides Heaven series.
