14 Feb Discovering Bian Lian, the Chinese Art of Face-Changing
The Chinese art of face changing doesn’t involve makeup or magic. However it may appear as if what’s happening is a form of wizardry. Also referred to as Bian Lian, face swapping is an ancient and traditional Sichuan art. Performers use silk masks to reflect the mood changes of their character.
The History of Bian Lian
Bian Lian is unique to China’s Sichuan region and dates back approximately three centuries. One story is that Bian Lian began as a mythical Robin Hood-type character. The man used the art to avoid being captured by authorities.
According to another story, the practice became popular during the Sung Dynasty. With limited resources available during that period, actors often played more than one role in a production.
Bian Lian is traditionally performed as a Sichuan Opera, with costumes and color schemes that are similar to those found in some of the most prominent Chinese opera schools. What sets it apart from other Chinese operas is the use of brightly colored masks, which are switched at lightning fast speed throughout the performance. These silk masks, which depict various expressions in ornate detail, transform the performer’s face as they turn or with a quick sleight of hand. The change is so fast that many experts and fans alike have puzzled over the mystery of Bian Lian’s technique for years.
Unraveling the Mystery of Face Changing
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Performers of the unique Chinese art of face changing go to great pains to keep its mysteries under wraps. Considered one of China’s most closely guarded treasures, they’re only about 200 people trained in Bian Lian. Tourists and other curious parties have attempted to decode the performance over the years, to little effect.
Because Sichuan Opera is competitive, those involved in the trade have a stake in protecting the secrets of Bian Lian. As such, there aren’t many opportunities to experience Chinese face swapping outside of mainland China. So they are worth seizing when they appear.
Xumin Liu is also a world-renowned expert in the Sichuan art of “Kung Fu Tea,” which is a combination of martial arts, dance, and tea service. Liu traveled to Korea to demonstrate this a decade ago. He then took an opportunity to train in Bian Lian with Simen Liu, a famous performer.
Xumin Liu is now performing both Bian Lian and “Kung Fu Tea” at two of San Francisco’s top Chinese restaurants – Z & Y Restaurant and Chili House SF. Both restaurants have a reputation for serving authentic Sichuan cuisine. Z & Y Restaurant has served top Chinese dignitaries including two former Chinese Presidents, and Chili House SF is a leading Peking Duck restaurant.
Liu will perform Bian Lian at both restaurants throughout the week. However, Chef Li Jun Han recommends calling first to confirm the schedule. Liu will only be performing these traditional Chinese arts for diners through the Summer of 2018.
