The Theatrical Publishing House of China has released a three-volume History of Chinese Peking Opera which tracks the development of the theatrical art in China between 1790 and 1996.

A ceremony was held at the Great Hall of the People today to mark the publication. Li Ruihuan, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, sent a letter of congratulations to the ceremony.

Li, also chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, wrote that Peking Opera best reflects the theatrical art in China, and that the book will help to carry on Chinese cultural traditions.

Compilation of the volumes started in 1982 by Mao Shaobo, Zhang Lihui and dozens of other Peking opera experts. The book also introduces artists from various fields of Peking opera.

The volumes include 380 photos and illustrations of Peking opera performances from different periods, as well as many of the famous artists who performed. (Xinhua)