Opera You and Me

Venue: National Centre for the Performing Arts - Theatre

Dates: Sept. 30, 2013-Oct. 07, 2013

Price: VIP/480/400/320/200/120 RMB

Credits

Composer/Orchestration/Conductor: Zhu Shaoyu

Chief Director: Zhang Yimou

Executive Director: Chen Lincang

Stage Designer: Gao Guangjian

Lighting Designer: Xing Xin

Costume Designer: Lan Ling

Multimedia Designers: Feng Jiangzhou, Zhang Lin

Cast

Emperor Zhengzhuang by Shang Changrong/Meng Guanglu/An Ping

Ying Kaoshu by Chen Shaoyun/Yang Naipeng

Wu Jiang by Li Mingyan/Yuan Huiqin

Queen Zhuang by Shi Yihong/Zhang Huifang

Gongzi Lyu by Zhu Shihui/Xu Mengke

Ying Kaoshu's mother by Kang Jing/Zhai Mo

NCPA's production of Peking Opera You and Me originates from the Chapter 'Lord Zheng conquering Duan in Yan' of Zuo's Commentary, and aims to express ancient Chinese filial affection of 'blood is thicker than water' and great wisdom by telling the story of wise Lord Zheng putting aside the differences and coming together with his mother in the period of Spring and Autumn.

The creative team brings together the most powerful lineup in the literary and art circles in China; World-renowned film director Zhang Yimou brings his crossover direction and famous composer Zhu Shaoyu creates unique music. Furthermore, the leaders in stage technology categories will join the performance. Three generations of legendary masters in the Peking Opera circle are also brought together.

In terms of idea concept, the opera adheres to the creation principle 'pay tribute to Peking Opera tradition'; by integrating the switch of traditional Peking Opera props 'one table two chairs' with high-tech means. The opera introduces formularization and free hand in traditional Chinese aesthetics into the creation, extracts "virtual" rich imagination essence in traditional Chinese opera, and maximizes the art charm of China Peking Opera. The entire opera features magnificent singing, stirring story, wonderful characters, and creative and simple choreography, showing an art style integrating 'tradition and modern' and long lasting appeal.