To celebrate China’s National Day, Chaoyang District in Beijing is holding an Amateur Peking Opera contest starting on August 18.

About 30 teams of local Beijing citizens will compete in the contest, which will be held in a theatre built and decorated in the style of ancient Chinese opera houses.

The judges will all be famous Peking Opera artists from around Beijing. They say the passion of the contestants puts more pressure for them to make the right choices.

Xiao Runde – Famous Peking Opera actor: “Judging is also a learning process. Giving a grade is very serious and strict.”

Du Peng – Famous Peking Opera actor:“The government committee of Chaoyang District places much importance on art that can capture the quintessence of the country. As an enthusiast of Peking opera and a performer, I am very happy. I am honored to participate in this kind of event.”

The contest is one of about 240 cultural activities arranged by the local Chaoyang District government, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

Video: Xu Yang & Gao Zhijian