In addition to the physical demands, mastering the Chinese language posed another hurdle. “I was constantly reciting the subtitles and songs, whether I was eating, bathing, walking, or even dreaming,“ Pourazar added.

　　“Though there were some extremely painful days, I enjoyed every moment,“ he said.

　　Initially, he focused on portraying ancient soldiers and generals like Wu Song and Lin Chong, before eventually transitioning to the iconic role of the Monkey King.

　　LIFELONG COMMITMENT

　　Pourazar believes that great art transcends languages. Over the years, he has devoted himself to introducing Peking Opera and Sun Wukong to international audiences, taking Chinese performers to perform in countries such as the United States, Britain and Malaysia.

　　He has also been teaching courses and organizing workshops in the United States, bringing Peking Opera to curious Western learners.

　　To better connect with Western audiences and learners, he adapted some classic plays such as “The Monkey King: Uproar in Heaven“ into English versions. “I changed the spoken parts into English and kept the original songs, and it became a success on the international stage,“ he said.

　　“I am the most powerful spirit in heaven and earth,“ Pourazar exclaims, dressed in a signature yellow costume reminiscent of the Monkey King. As he recites the dialogues in English with the distinctive intonation of Peking Opera, he leaps, flips and executes movements that capture the playful nature of the mischievous monkey. Despite not being Chinese, his efforts bring the essence of the Monkey King to life.

　　Over the past two decades, his captivating performances have introduced the enchanting character to numerous international audiences. “My young nephew, who lives in Turkey, has become so enamored with the Monkey King that he taught himself to perform this character,“ Pourazar said.