ASIA WEEK NEW YORK EXHIBITION
Photograph from the opera Farewell, My Concubine, performed in the U.S., 1930, digital image, collection of Chinese National Academy of Arts, ©Chinese National Academy of Arts
The Dancing Goddess: Mei Lanfang in America
March 12 – July 12, 2026
Curator’s Talk: Thursday, March 12, 6:30-8pm
Asia Week New York Open House: Thursday, March 26, 2026, 10am-8pm (free admission with light refreshments)
Step into the vibrant world of Mei Lanfang, the 20th-century’s greatest performer of Peking Opera, whose sensational 1930 American tour forever changed the landscape of modern theater. In celebration of China Institute’s centennial, The Dancing Goddess: Mei Lanfang in America revisits this milestone of Sino-American cultural exchange, a pivotal moment sponsored by the Institute itself. Discover how Mei Lanfang, through a revolutionary fusion of song, dance, and psychological acting, captivated American audiences and inspired artists from Broadway to Hollywood.
Set of woodblock-printed playbills for Mei Lanfang’s plays, 1922, collection of Chinese National Academy of Arts, ©Chinese National Academy of Arts
The exhibition will feature an extraordinary collection of his revolutionary stage costumes, rare photographs, original production materials, and artwork that illuminate his creative genius. Join us to experience the story of an artist who bridged cultures, a legacy that embodies China Institute’s century-long mission of fostering a deeper understanding of China through art, education, and culture.
Red satin robe embroidered with gold dragons among clouds (female costume), Qing dynasty Yongzheng period, silk, shoulder-to-sleeve length: 220 cm; garment length: 119 cm, collection of Chinese National Academy of Arts ©Chinese National Academy of Arts
Presented in celebration of China Institute’s Centennial, the exhibition honors this defining chapter in our history and the enduring legacy of cross-cultural dialogue that Mei Lanfang inspired.
Be sure to take part in our special three-part program tracing the evolution of Peking opera through the revolutionary work of Mei Lanfang. The program opens with a lecture by the exhibition curator, Dr. Catherine V. Yeh (Boston University), who explores Mei’s pioneering interpretation of female roles in Peking opera, especially his origination of the novel huashan role. In the second part, Dr. Kui Wang, historian and director of the Opera Research Institute at Chinese National Academy of Art, examines the specific cultural and historical context of Mei’s innovations. The program concludes with a conversation with the two speakers and Dr. Xiaojie Shao, associate director of the Library at Chinese National Academy of Art about the intersections of their research and Mei’s remarkably well-preserved legacy continues to influence theater, gender representation, and cross-cultural dialogue today.
Purchase your tickets here. For more information, please contact Tracy Jiao at [email protected].
We look forward to welcoming you soon!
To learn more, click here.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Lunch and Learn
Friday, June 12, 2026, 12-1pm
Online
Join us virtually to explore Chinese medicine as a living cultural tradition and learn how Chinese ideas about the body, nature, and balance have shaped daily life for thousands of years.
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has evolved over centuries, offering a distinctive way of understanding health, the body, and the world around us. Rooted in observations of nature and grounded in philosophical ideas such as yin and yang, qi, and seasonal harmony, Chinese medicine reflects a holistic view of life that connects the human body with the environment, community, and time. Exploring these concepts offers a meaningful pathway to understanding Chinese culture, history, and ways of living.
We will explore core cultural concepts in Chinese medicine, including balance and harmony, seasonal living, food and herbs as everyday supports, and gentle mind–body practices. We will highlight how these ideas have influenced daily routines, dietary habits, and wellness practices across Chinese history and into the present day.
To learn more and register, click here.
Calligraphy, Music, and Mandarin Meetup
Thursday, June 18, 2026, 6-8pm
In-person
Step into a beautiful evening where art, music, and language come alive. Each month, experience captivating live performances featuring some of China’s most iconic instruments — from the graceful guqin (古琴) to the ethereal, harp-like konghou (箜篌) and the lush, harmonizing sheng (笙)— performed by talented musicians who bring these ancient sounds to life.
As music fills the room, slow down and immerse yourself in the serene practice of Chinese calligraphy, guided by a master calligrapher. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, you’ll receive hands-on guidance — all materials (ink, paper, brushes) are provided.
Want to practice Mandarin? Join our Mandarin Language Table during intermission for a fun, relaxed conversation with support from our language instructors.
Enjoy tea and light refreshments, meet fellow culture lovers, and experience a unique night of art and connection in the heart of NYC!
No experience is needed — just bring your curiosity! We can’t wait to share this inspiring evening with you.
To learn more and purchase tickets, click here.
About China Institute Gallery
China Institute Gallery is renowned for its intimate, first-class thematic exhibitions. Since 1966, the Gallery has presented more than 120 exhibitions showcasing both historical and contemporary works across a wide range of media and art forms. Covering 5,000 years of Chinese history from the Neolithic period to the present day, China Institute Gallery is the only non-commercial exhibition space solely dedicated to Chinese art in New York and the United States. China Institute Gallery will celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2026, reaffirming the gallery’s leadership in landmark historical exhibitions while expanding the gallery’s commitment to the vibrant world of contemporary Chinese art.
