Golden Threads: Chinese Opera in America

An Exhibit at the Chinese American Museum DC - October 22 - February 1, 2022
This exhibit is now closed. Please return soon for a digital archive of this installation.

Golden Threads: Chinese Opera in America explores the presence and cultural importance of traditional opera on Chinese American communities from the late 19th century to modern day. For Chinese opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike, the exhibit also gives a primer introduction to the stage arts, characters, make up, and performances and the cultural legacy that still endures today. View beautiful, painstakingly embroidered costumes and accessories and rare photographs.

Chinese Opera’s origins date back to the Three Kingdoms Period in 220 AD, but the artform still exists in American communities across the country. In the early 20th century, opera star, Mei Lanfang, toured the U.S. and reached far beyond Chinese communities. Will new generations embrace such an ancient craft? What are local communities doing to preserve opera?

This exhibit is made possible through the generous support of AT&T, Yes She May, Evergreen Enterprises, The E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation. And supporters like you.

Please check our Visit section for updated days open and public hours.