Yu Shuyan

Biography

Yu Shuyan (1890–1943) was born in Beijing in 1890 and performed in the sheng (male) roles of Peking opera, studying under the master Tan Xinpei. His adoptive grandfather and adoptive father were both Peking opera artists. He began learning the art at age nine, studying literary scenes with Wu Liankui and martial arts with Yao Zenglou. At age thirteen, he made his stage debut in his father's troupe. Yu Shuyan was known as one of the "Three Greats" alongside Yang Xiaolou and Mei Lanfang, and was also one of the "Four Great Sheng" along with Yan Jubeng, Gao Qingkui, and Ma Lianliang. His vocal style greatly influenced Peking opera and became known as the "Yu School." His notable students included Yang Baozhong, Tan Fuying, Li Shaochun, and Meng Xiaodong. He died in Beiping in 1943.