Peking opera artist Wang Peiyu

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There's a saying that a woman can never truly understand a man, and vice versa. But Wang Peiyu is an exception. The Peking opera performer, who's just turned 30, is known for her insightful portrayals of a string of prominent men in Chinese history and traditional dramas. We meet the artist, on today's "The List".

Chen Kaige's award-winning "Farewell, My Concubine" generated international interest in Peking Opera and the cross-dressing role of the "Dan," when men act the part of women.

The tradition also has women playing men. "Sheng" is the general term for all male roles. Wang Peiyu's specialty is the "Lao Sheng" , or adult male.

Wang Peiyu is known for her exceptional vocal skills, gestures and facial expressions, and most importantly, her insight into the role's innermost being.

Wang Peiyu said, "I think there lies a unique aesthetic value in women's portrayal of male roles. A good performer can even outdo her male peers in terms of exquisite performance and appeal in general."