Study examines spatial composition of vernacular opera stage courtyards in China's Ba shu region

From an integrated perspective of “vernacular quyi and spatial forms,” this study organizes the spatial morphology of Ba shu opera stage courtyards through documentary research, field research, and oral history to clarify the cultural and technological background. Based on typological theory, it summarizes design parameters through technical examination of their planer layouts, facade order, unit combinations, and space correlation, elucidating the hierarchical principles. By applying cultural space theory, the study deciphers typological compositions through cultural interpretations of archetypes, interfaces, fields, and spaces, to reveal the socio-cultural mechanisms. The findings demonstrate that these courtyards are geopolitical cultural products shaped by spatial patterns and temporal evolution within the Ba shu cultural geography as performance-spectating spaces for Sichuan opera and quyi. Their spatial forms crystallise regional vernacular quyi culture and indigenous geographical wisdom, becoming integral to concepts, structures, regulations, and customary practices of quyi. This research provides technical references for the conservation and restoration of the architectural heritage of Ba shu opera and the sustainable utilization of quyi cultural heritage. It supports efforts to secure UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site status for the Sichuan Ancient Road cultural route.