Bob and Ann in Elder Hostel China Odyssey 2004

Another long bus ride to a village South West of Guiyang to see old Han men perform “dixi”, Chinese grand opera. It was simply staged in the village plaza. By the time we arrived at 10 AM the sun was quite hot. The performers wore heavy dark costumes and large stylized masks depicting a battle between warriors and warlords of rival factions early in Chinese history. Rather creaky elders sang and danced these parts, but they seemed confirmed in their roles and were appreciated by both E.H. audience and old Han women seated around the “stage.”

Road Scene on the Way to Huanguoshu Falls

Lunch at Huanguoshu (yellow tangerine tree) Waterfall resort was tasty but rushed so we could walk to the waterfall through a large bonsai garden. The view spot was crowded with tourists but the falls are impressive. Some of our E.H. group were overheated by the walk on a hot day. and buy.

Shitou Bouyi Greeters - More Rice Wine

Back on the bus to Shitou Bouyi Village where ethnic dancing and drumming with bamboo stakes in village square would have been less surreal had we not been obligated to quaff more rice wine in heavy heat. A table model sewing machine was one of the backdrops for the entertainment which probably stitched up the colorful ethnic embroidered purses that Bob bought from an ancient crone before we jumped on the bus for the 3 hour ride back to The Miracle Hotel. Bob also bought two lovely classic batik cloths at the factory where we stopped to see a demonstration and buy.

Before the Farewell Banquet Linda and Jon came to our room for a quick rehearsal of 10 Little Miao, thanks to Bob’s copies with words and pronunciations. Jonathon, the local guide and Yang were jolly hosts for the meal, urging us to drink more wine and Chinese liquor. Most of us managed to avoid drinking much knowing we would soon have to perform. There were lots of laughs for Pat, Ellen and Betty Jean who prepared their version of Chinese Opera and took good natured jabs at some of us Elder Hostelers. Sally and Vera recited a poem to the rhythm of Vera’s souvenir bell. Carol read a funny and telling list of her likes and dislikes about the trip. Our song was fumbling but funny capped by Bob’s announcement that all were invited to join us in our encore, 100 bottles of beer on the wall in Chinese. After speeches and toasts we adjourned, exhausted to our suites. Ann’s sore throat became a full blown head cold during the night.

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