Courtesy China Institute Gallery

The Dancing Goddess: Mei Lanfang in America
March 12 – July 12, 2026
Curator’s Talk: Mar. 12, 6:30–8pm
Asia Week New York Open House: March 26, 2026, 10am-8pm (free admission with light refreshments)

China Institute Gallery is thrilled to present The Dancing Goddess: Mei Lanfang in America opening March 12 with an opening lecture by exhibition curator, Dr. Catherine V. Yeh (Boston University). The groundbreaking artistry of Mei Lanfang, the 20th century’s preeminent master of Peking opera and one of the most influential performers ever to grace the stage, is showcased in a dramatic display of his costumes, stage sets, props, paintings, rare photographs, videos, and archival materials.

Curated by the internationally renowned expert Dr. Catherine V. Yeh, the exhibition celebrates his triumphant 1930 American tour, organized by the newly established China Institute of America. A milestone of Sino-American cultural exchange, Mei Lanfang’s visit launched Peking opera to the world stage, captivating Broadway audiences with his original fusion of song, dance, and dramatic acting. Mei’s work inspired artists from Bertolt Brecht and Thornton Wilder to Konstantin Stanislavski. Through his powerful reimagining of feminine roles, he transformed a centuries-old art form, leaving an indelible mark on modern dance, fashion, film, and theater.

Presented in celebration of China Institute’s Centennial, the exhibition honors this defining chapter in their history and the enduring legacy of cross-cultural dialogue that Mei Lanfang inspired.

For more information, please contact Tracy Jiao at [email protected].

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