A Game Played at the Banquet

In this play, numerous Chinese proverbs are used to test audience responses as a reflection of peoples' ordinary lives — particularly the banquet scene during which people drink together and compete with one another on their knowledge and wisdom.

This play is among those traditionally performed for holidays and festivals such as the Spring Festival, as well as celebrations of Buddha's birthday, because of its performance style. The play features numerous percussion instruments, as well as acrobatic dancing and martial arts scenes instead of songs. The whole play is lively and cheerful, with colourful costumes and auspicious lines. The play has no actual plot, other than to express wishes for good fortune and a happy family life, using well-known figures from Chinese history or popular tales.

Similar opera plays are usually staged in turns, one after the other, for several days during the festival. Audiences come and go, simply sharing in the happiness and lively holiday atmosphere.