Chinese quintessence: Beijing Opera Face-Changing Art 中国国粹：京剧变脸艺术

How does Chinese opera face changing work?
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The Chinese art of face-changing doesn't involve makeup or magic. However, it may appear as if what's happening is a form of wizardry. Also referred to as Bian Lian, face swapping is an ancient and traditional Sichuan art. Performers use silk masks to reflect the mood changes of their characters.

Changing faces is a difficult technique in operatic performance. It is considered to be a stunt that can only be mastered after extensive training. Face-changing is also a special technique used to exaggerate the inner feelings of characters, portray their dispositions, set off the atmosphere, and improve effects.