Giuseppe Verdi's opera version of Shakespeare's Othello is widely regarded as a classic. And now China is getting its own run of the performance.

Guest tenor Manrico Tedeschi from Canada joins forces with Shanghai Opera's own tenor Yang Xiaoyong, and soprano Huang Mei.

Rounding out the cast was a top selection of local talent. Those lucky enough to get tickets were assured a classy performance of this difficult opera.

Verdi's masterpiece is as challenging as it is beautiful. Even in Italy, the opera has not been staged for over 20 years.

Othello opened Saturday night at the Shanghai Grand Theater, and its run ends Tuesday night.

(CCTV.com April 21, 2004)