183 Beijing Operas - Chai Gui - Number 171

Chai Gui

Beijing Opera - "Seeking Capable Men"

Chai Gui with a white pointed three-tile face has a role in the opera "Seeking Capable Men." To find capable men to serve him, the Song emperor sponsors a tournament. Chai Gui, relying on his power as Prince of Liang and conniving with one of the judges, is determined to win first place by all means, fair or foul. On the day of the tournament, learning that he is slated to meet Yue Fei, he tries to coerce Yue Fei into backing out. Yue Fei not only refuses but challenges Chai Gui to a fight to the death. In the ensuing combat, he pierces Chai Gui with his spear and kills him.