The institute’s duties and functions are:

1. Research the history of traditional opera performed in the Ming and Qing courts. Acquire, classify, and conserve relevant artifacts. Acquire and study relevant ancient documents.

2. Promote court opera as a form of traditional culture through publications; promote the unique perspective of the Palace Museum in the field of Chinese opera studies; and develop a team distinctive to the Palace Museum.

This institute is affiliated with Department of Palace Life and Imperial Ritual.

Director: Wang Yuegong