Face Changing

  5000 Years                                                         
Chinese history spans over 5000 years.  It's said to begin with the mythical Xia dynasty, but historical records begin with the Shang dynasty (beginning around 1766 BC).  Sichuan is known for its history, a history that differs from NE China.  For example, just outside the city limits farmers made the discovery of a 4000 year old ancient city.
 川剧 (chuan ju)                                                    
Another example is from more recent history (1700's AD).  This tradition is the art form of  Sichuan opera  ( 川剧 chuan1ju4). This art form was and is used to both convey the history of China and entertain the Chinese people. In the past every Sichuanese village had an Opera troupe that entertained the village population.
变脸  （bian lian)                                                       
Many of you might be dozing off at just the mention of the word "opera", but Sichuan opera is a different story.  Many aspects of the opera are witty and unique.Bian lian (变脸), traditional face changing, ranks as one of my favorites.  The masks look a bit weird, but remember, they tell traditional stories, many from famous Chinese literature.
 Please Remember                                                       
1.  Clinic License!  
PTL for the temporary license, but we really need the permanent license to come soon.
2.  Professional Athletes! 
The English class now has athletes from 5 different sports (judo, wrestling, field hockey, weight lifting and taekwondo).
3.  Adjustment to Chengdu
Chengdu's weather, dialect and laid back culture differ from NE China.