Guan Hanqing

He has been described as among the most prolific and highly regarded dramatists of the Yuan period.

[1] Guan Hanqing was undoubtedly the most productive and creative playwright of northern plays.

Described by Jia Zhongming as “the leader of the Pear Garden” (liyuan lingxiu 梨園領袖), Guan was fully immersed in the theatrical scene of his time and was well known amongst both actors and his fellow peers.

He is even said to have painted and powdered his face (mianfu fenmo 面傅粉墨) while acting on stage.

In addition to playwriting, Guan Hanqing is also said to be a master of songs (sanqu 散曲).