Thanks to a cultural exchange program called Image China, the Queen Elizabeth Theatre will host the Canadian premiere of Opera Warriors, a production that fuses contemporary dance, high-flying acrobatics, and martial arts, for just two performances on January 5 and 6.

The show, which is being presented by the China Arts and Entertainment Group (CAEG), is described as "an epic Chinese dance theatre production of power, passion, and the Peking Opera told through dance". Performed by 40 dancers from the Haujin Dance Drama Ensemble of Shanxi Academy of Arts and directed by the award-winning creative team behind the 2008 Beijing Olympics opening ceremony, it's said to showcase the best of Chinese modern theatre arts.

After a series of shows at Australia's Sydney Opera House, Opera Warriors continues its world tour here in Vancouver. In a press release, board chairman and president of CAEG Zhang Yu said that Vancouverites will be "spellbound by the production's great innovations and entrancing dance talent." 

Set in 20th century northern China, the story follows the fates of three Peking Opera performers. After training under the same martial arts master, they join a theatrical troupe and seem destined for success, until love and jealousy throw a wrench in their plans.

At a preview of the show earlier today, the Straight got a glimpse of the larger-than-life set, elaborate costumes, and talented dancers that make up this performance. To get a taste of what to expect at today and tomorrow night's shows, watch the video below.

Performances will take place on January 5 and 6 at 8 p.m. For tickets, click here.