Mei took on the role of the ‘dan’ 旦 (dàn), specifically 青衣 ( qīng yī). He learned the art of opera the ‘correct way’ and refused to take shortcuts.

Mei’s constant diligence and dedication made up for his shortcomings. Once he had been performing for some years, he joined a troupe, and the Mei family’s prospects greatly improved.

In 1904, aged 10, Mei made his stage debut, although few people found him impressive. The Jia family tea house, now known as the Guanghe theatre 广和楼 ( guǎng hé lóu ), was a prestigious establishment that actors were honoured to play at. He was patient and after only 2 years of training, prepared Mei for his first performance. His family were extremely disappointed that Mei had not inherited his grandfather and father’s talent, and was described by an aunt 50 years later as being ‘inarticulate and bland looking’ as a child.Įventually, a teacher took on the role of training Mei in the operatic techniques needed to perform. He was initially taught by a former student of his grandfather’s, but Mei showed little talent and the teacher refused to teach him. Once he turned 8, Mei Yutian set about finding a trustworthy teacher who could train Mei in the art of Peking Opera.

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