Here is an English introduction to the Peking Opera piece “The Goddess Scatters Flowers” (《天女散花》):
In this elegant and symbolic Peking Opera performance, a heavenly maiden (often interpreted as a Bodhisattva or celestial being) descends from the heavens to Earth. Sent by the Buddha, she comes to scatter sacred flowers over the mortal world. Each flower she scatters represents blessings, compassion, and purity, intended to relieve suffering, cleanse sin, and bring peace and harmony to all living beings.
As she dances gracefully across the stage, the goddess spreads the flowers with slow, flowing movements and long silk sleeves that symbolize divine energy and grace. There is little or no spoken dialogue; instead, the performance relies on expressive gestures, dance, and music to convey a sense of spiritual serenity and transcendence.
This piece is not focused on a complex storyline but is rather a spiritual and aesthetic expression rooted in Buddhist themes. It is often appreciated for its beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and the skillful performance required of the actress.