"There’s about 500 performers and almost 1,000 sets of costumes, not to mention the thousands of props. The sheer scale of the show is breathtaking, and it really helps us understand how Italians back then saw China," said Xu Qimin, the artistic director of the opera house.

Puccini’s fascination with Chinese culture is apparent in his inclusion of the Chinese folk melody "Jasmine Flower", which becomes a sort of "Leitmotif" for princess Turandot.

The Chinese story and music have been enthusiastically received by many audiences.

Conductor Daniel Oren has conducted 300 operas based on Puccini’s works. This show is fiercely loyal to the composer: Everything down to the last detail is carefully orchestrated to reflect the unique elements of a Puccini play - an effort much appreciated by the Chinese audience.