Dongba Stage

Dongba Stage

The Dongba Stage is located in Gaochun District, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province.

Dongba Town is the second largest town in Gaochun County. Historically, it was a hub for grain transport and trade, as well as an important military stronghold within the county. The stage is situated on the north bank of the Xu River in Dongba Town, within the town government compound. Originally a performance stage built for worship ceremonies within the Dongyue Temple, it is also known as the Dongyue Temple Stage. It was first built in the 2nd year of the Longqing era during the Ming Dynasty (1568), and was destroyed by fire in the 31st year of the Guangxu era (1905). In the 6th year of the Republic of China (1917), it was redesigned and reconstructed under the direction of renowned local craftsman Li Xiancun. Three minor renovations were carried out in 1958, 1981, and 1995.

The Dongba Stage is located on the north bank of the Xu River in Dongba Town. Originally the front section of the Dongyue Temple, it is a brick-and-timber structure with a single-eave hip-and-gable roof. Three sides are enclosed by walls, with one side left open for viewing performances. The stage has two levels: the upper level serves as the performance area, while the lower level accommodates the theatrical troupe’s lodging. The structure is “convex” in plan, spanning three bays, standing 11.5 meters high, with a flush gable roof. It covers an area of 159 square meters. The stage is divided into front and back areas by pillars in the center — the front for performances, featuring an octagonal caisson ceiling, and the back for makeup. A horizontal plaque inscribed with the characters “Zhu Yue Qing Tian” (Pillars Supporting the Heavens) hangs on the exterior wall above the stage, flanked by dark green couplets. Both the plaque and couplets were written by Wang Jiarong, a renowned calligrapher from Gaochun and top imperial scholar (Jieyuan) of the late Qing Dynasty. On either side of the main stage, wooden panels partition two smaller platforms against the supporting pillars — the left for the orchestra, and the right for distinguished guests. In front of the stage lies a sloped plaza that rises from back to front, covering an area of over 1,600 square meters and capable of accommodating several thousand spectators.

The beams, diagonal braces, and other wooden components on the exterior of the stage are carved with patterns depicting historical allusions, auspicious beasts, symbolic motifs, and floral designs. The lines are fluid and the figures vivid, all crafted by master artisans. The overall architecture integrates elements of folk design, featuring an elegant, classic, and rustic beauty. It is one of the more intact ancient stages preserved in Gaochun County to this day.

Further Reading:

· Third Batch of Jiangsu Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Units