Theater plans mix of classics and originals

Following the success of a weeklong series of performances at Shanghai Oriental Art Center, Northern Kunqu Opera Theater will present a collection of classics and experimental works in the next two years.

Yang Fengyi, director of Northern Kunqu Opera Theater, says Shanghai has a flourishing Kunqu Opera market.

"The city has nurtured many well-known artists," says Yang. "And audiences in Shanghai usually have refined taste and interact well with Kunqu Opera performers."

The upcoming performance schedule is an effort to develop the theater's brand among locals. The new season raises its curtain in April. Talented young Kunqu artist Xiao Xiangping will present a northern Chinese version of the classic "The Peony Pavilion" on April 22-23 and another show of well-known excerpts.

"The Peony Pavilion" is considered a masterpiece by ancient Chinese playwright Tang Xianzu. It follows the love story of Du Liniang, daughter of a county official, and young scholar Liu Mengmei.

Compared with other productions, the northern Chinese version tells the romantic story mainly from Liu's perspective. Scenes have been created to depict Du's dream, where she encounters Liu and their romance begins.

On April 23, Xiao will stage a show of excerpts from famous works such as "The Story of the Jade Hairpin," "The Thorn Hairpins" and "The Embroidered Coat." The three excerpts will be performed in different styles.

"The Story of the Jade Hairpin" is a light-hearted love story of Pan Bizheng, a young scholar, and Chen Miaochang, a Taoist nun. It features a lot of comic lines and scenes.

"The Embroidered Coat" centers on young scholar Zheng Yuanhe, who is saved by a prostitute. After he rises to fame during the imperial examination, he marries the prostitute despite strong opposition.

Later this year, Xiao will collaborate with Gu Weiying, a young female artist, on "Li Qingzhao," an original play about the life of the famous ancient female poet.

The Northern Kunqu Opera Theater's repertoire for the next two years has not been decided yet. But it says it will continue to preserve the ancient art while innovating at the same time.

• "The Peony Pavilion"

Date: April 22, 7:15pm

• A show of classic excerpts

Date: April 23, 7:15pm

Venue: Yifu Theater, 701 Fuzhou Rd

Tel: 6322-5294