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May21

World Culture Diversity Day – Spotlight on Peking Opera

When:
Where:Dear Asia Aldgate Center
Click the BOOK TICKET button below to reserve your spot via our Eventbrite listing.

Celebrate World Culture Diversity Day with Us

At Dear Asia, World Culture Diversity Day is close to our hearts. As a team of first- and second-generation Asian immigrants based in London, we’re proud to live in one of the most multicultural cities in the world. London is a true melting pot, and we see this day as an opportunity to celebrate, share, and promote deeper awareness of Asian cultures in a way that is accessible, joyful, and meaningful.

Spotlight on Peking Opera

Each year on this day, we shine a spotlight on a different cultural tradition from Asia — one that deserves to be better known and appreciated. This year, we’ve chosen Peking Opera.

Peking Opera, or Jingju, is one of the most iconic forms of Chinese traditional theatre. Developed in the 18th century and refined over centuries, it combines music, dance, mime, acrobatics, and stylized acting into a rich and symbolic performance art. The characters are vividly brought to life through elaborate costumes and distinctive painted face masks known as lianpu. Each color and pattern on the mask reveals the personality, role, and fate of the character — from noble generals to cunning villains, wise elders to spirited young women.

What to Expect:

We’re not just teachers — we’re experience designers. Every Dear Asia workshop engages your head, hands, and heart. Learn something new, make something beautiful, taste something delicious, and connect more deeply with the cultures of Asia.

In this session, you’ll:

  • Learn about Peking Opera and the symbolism behind the colorful face masks
  • Make your own hanging ornament inspired by the Huadan character
  • Taste a traditional treat that ties into the culture we’re exploring

The craft is beginner-friendly — simple enough for all ages, yet rich in meaning. As you assemble your ornament, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how even the smallest decorative details serve to tell stories on the grand stage of Peking Opera.

Come celebrate with us — and leave with more than just a souvenir: leave with a story, a memory, and a connection.

Details of the event
  • 21st May
  • Time: 6-7pm
  • Where:  Dear Asia in Aldgate Tower
  • Who: All are welcome! 
  •   £30 – book your tickets if you are not one of our current students. Students – please send RSVP.
  • What is included:  Authentic treats and all crafting material are included.
If you are a Dear Asia Student
You must be a current student to attend the event free(required)

Cultural introduction

Peking Opera, or Jingju, is one of the most iconic forms of Chinese traditional theatre. Developed in the 18th century and refined over centuries, it combines music, dance, mime, acrobatics, and stylized acting into a rich and symbolic performance art. The characters are vividly brought to life through elaborate costumes and distinctive painted face masks known as lianpu. Each color and pattern on the mask reveals the personality, role, and fate of the character — from noble generals to cunning villains, wise elders to spirited young women.

Want to hire us?

Bespoke event for you!

Dear Asia is a London-based event organiser specialising in creative workshops celebrating Asian cultures. With years of experience, our team excels at hosting engaging events for groups of 15-60 people in your office. We’re passionate about what we do, but our capacity is limited. If you’d like us to run an event for you, visit this page for more details and get in touch!

Dear Asia Aldgate Center

2 Leman Street
London, E1 8FA United Kingdom
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May 21 @ 6:00 pm 7:00 pm BST