Zhang Jun speaks at a press conference of the Kunqu Opera "Blossoms on a Spring Moonlit Night."(Dong Jun)
An updated version of Zhang Jun's original Kunqu Opera "Blossoms on a Spring Moonlit Night" will be staged at the Shanghai Grand Theater. The show made its debut last year, winning acclaim from both critics and fans.
The show centers on themes of love and time. Compared with the lavish and spectacular stage scenes of last year's version, the revamped show will follow a more poetic and impressionistic style to depict the subtle emotions of the characters. Oriental aesthetics and philosophic reflection upon the value of time and love will be incorporated into the show.
Zhang, who was honored as a UNESCO Artist for Peace in 2011, will play the protagonist, poet Zhang Ruoxu, while performing artist Guan Dongtian will play the calligrapher Zhang Xu.
The romantic play is written by Luo Zhou. Inspired by an ancient Chinese poem of the same name, the story is about the fantasy life of a poet. It is also a story of love that transcends life and death.
According to Zhang, the stage design of the show has been simplified and re-created by young talented stage artist Wang Huan, who graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.
"The rich cultural connotation of the age-old Chinese theater will be combined with a kind of global perspective," Zhang says. "The show tries to give a new interpretation of the eternal and universal themes of love and time. It will resonate in the hearts of today's young people."
Compared with Zhang's former Kunqu roles, the rich and delicate emotions of the lead poet throughout his entire life are a challenge.
"We will offer young performers more opportunities to star in the show," says Zhang. "It is important to bring more young talents into the world of Kunqu Opera."
Meanwhile, Zhang is also working on a Kunqu Opera version of "Hamlet." The show is expected to debut in October. It will also tour London.
Date: November 25-26, 7:15pm
Tickets: 80-880 yuan
Tel: 6386-8686
Venue: Shanghai Grand Theater Address: 300 People's Ave
