Allegorical tale of US family

A psychological and symbolic play, "I Dream of Sheep," written and directed by American born Chinese theater graduate Valentino Yung, will debut at Shanghai Grand Theater.

Through the eyes of an American family, the play depicts the conflict between the father, Dan and the son, David. The mother's death has deprived the family of its ability to love, but the presence of a sheep heals their wounds and awakens their humanity. Their relationship with neighbor Carlos and Dan's two girlfriends, Barbara and Ashley, demonstrates the complexities of family and society.

Symbols

Six post-graduate students at Shanghai Theatre Academy perform in the show, including the role of the sheep, the symbol of love, beauty and inner peace.

"All the characters symbolize something. They live in everyone's mind," Yung told Shanghai Daily.

Back in the school days of the young director, who was born in 1987, he had a mystical dream and was determined to make it into a play. After Yung received his master's degree from the New School for Drama in New York City, he returned to Shanghai and established his drama studio.

"People are spoiled with average stories. They expect a hero who comes into their life and brings a happy ending," Yung said. "My story is a reflection on real life. It tells them that even if one makes things work out, it might not end well."

The actors' preparation for the play is also unconventional. Jiang Bingjie, the actress who plays one of Dan's girlfriends, said the training is more improvised than what she has experienced in the past. Learning even happens during their rehearsals.

Space to explore

"The director gives us enough space to explore the play ourselves. Even the walking routes are not planned," Jiang said. "The only two things he requires are to keep the strength and to grasp the emotional catharsis."

The upcoming show is a collaboration among Yung's drama studio, Shanghai Modern People Drama Association and the graduate department of Shanghai Theatre Academy.

"When we face the reality that the drama market in the Chinese mainland has become increasingly commercialized, the originality and experimental spirit of this play is what Chinese drama lacks," said Zhang Yu, director of the Shanghai Modern People Drama Association.

A culture and arts foundation in the name of the director has been established, according to Rong Hailan, the artistic director who is also Yung's aunt.

Date: August 6-17, 7.30pm

Venue: Shanghai Grand Theatre, 300 People's Avenue, 300

Tickets: 120 yuan

Tel: 6386-8686, 3330-3626