A scene from "Folding." Photos from Xiaohongshu
"Near the Terrace"
"Sunrise"
"God of War"
'Sunrise'
"Sunrise" is a classic drama written by famous Chinese playwright Cao Yu. After having been performed for decades, it remains popular and retains a powerful vitality.
The story takes place in the luxurious lounge of a hotel in Tianjin during the 1930s, centering around the courtesan Chen Bailu. Set in a semi-feudal, semi-colonial urban environment affected by the economic panic of the capitalist world in the early 1930s, the play depicts the upper class engaging in various activities of "damaging what is insufficient to enrich what is abundant," along with the tragic lives of the lower class.
The play expresses the author's strong sentiments of love and hate towards real life and his longing for a bright future.
Time: 3 p.m., Sept.16
Tickets: 80-480 yuan
'God of War'
The musical "God of War" draws from well-known mythological tales. While retaining the essence of traditional stories, it boldly offers a broader perspective and creative storytelling that enriches the character of Yang Jian, also known as Erlang Shen, a mythical deity with a third eye in the center of his forehead.
The choreography seamlessly blends martial arts with the graceful fluidity of dance, presenting a unique aesthetic beauty. In terms of music, composer Zhang Bo skillfully combines traditional folk elements with modern musical influences, creating a sound that is both culturally rich and contemporary. The design of costumes and makeup achieves an excellent balance between classical and fashionable elements.
This original Chinese musical not only showcases the powerful vitality and enduring charm of traditional Chinese culture, but also offers a contemporary perspective and creative approach, providing the audience with an audiovisual feast of Eastern mythology and an irreplaceable emotional experience.
Time: 3 p.m. Sept. 21 and 22
Tickets: 180-680 yuan
'Folding' & 'Near the Terrace'
"Folding" draws its imagery from the famous line "Great sounds are seldom heard; great forms are without form" in Laozi's "Tao Te Ching."
The piece aims to transcend auditory and visual perceptions through a minimalist and subtly measured "life of material movement." On stage, the mysterious chanting of Tibetan Buddhist scriptures intertwines with the ethereal music of British composer John Tavener.
The work is praised by Western media as a "representation of China's nobility, restraint, and elegance."
"Near the Terrace" also integrates dance and visual art. Its inspiration stems from the paintings of Belgian surrealist Paul Delvaux, presenting a context rich in Western visual art influences.
This touring performance of "Near the Terrace" and "Folding" will feature top dancers from the United States, France, and China, with a comprehensive enhancement of the quality of stage design, scenery, costumes, and lighting, all while fully respecting the classics.
Time: 8 p.m., Sept. 27 and 28
Tickets: 80-880 yuan
Venue: Pingshan Theater, Pingshan District
Metro: Line 14 to Pingshan Square Station, Exit D1