Li Yugang

Li Yugang (Chinese: 李玉刚; pinyin: Lǐ Yùgāng; born July 23, 1978) is a Chinese singer, artist, the soloist of China National Opera & Dance Drama Theater and national first class actor. He specialises in "nándàn" (男旦) roles, males playing female roles, in Peking opera and is also known for his ability to sing in both male and female voices. Li has released a number of CDs. Today, the range of Li Yugang's influence extends far beyond the entertainment world, opening up new dialogues among critics of contemporary music, theatre and aesthetics, and has become an icon in China's contemporary cultural scene. Beyond his professional and international accolades, Li is known as a celebrity in his own hometown, Gongzhuling in Jilin, and is respected for his generous donations and help to local charity organisations, especially in education. A very modest man who is aware that he has not had the rigorous training of traditional Peking opera, he is constantly studying and passionately committed to make China's rich cultural heritage accessible both to the young generation and to audiences around the world.