Details

In ancient China, the highest of ambitions was to pass the imperial examinations and become a civil servant. Dejected protagonist Lu has tried and failed the exams three times. On his way home Lu stops at an inn, but while waiting to be served his food he falls into a deep sleep in which he dreams of an entire well-spent life. Lu studies for exams, earns a degree, falls in love, gets married and has children, is condemned to death, is cleared of all charges, and slowly grows old. Just as his food is about to be served, the young man wakes and realises it was nothing but a dream. Combining bold design with drama, stagecraft and symbolism, this contemporary telling of a classic Chinese play is the story of a man who dreams an entire life only to wake up in the inn where he started. Performed in in Mandarin with English surtitles

Cast/Performers

Li He (Lu), Zeng Junhui (Cui), Hu Wei (Dog / Foreman / Eldest Son), Chen Huanhuan (Fire / County Official), Guan Dongtian (Taoist Priest), Sun Bo (Waiter / Old Maidservant), Wang Fang (Donkey / Officer / Illegitimate Son), Wang Ping (Rooster / Youngest Son), Ma Junwen (Fire / Xiao), Wan Jing (Fire / Pei)

Creatives/Company

Author: Tang Xianzu
Company: Guangzhou Dramatic Arts Centre
Adapted by(s): Yu Qingfeng, Qu Zhaojie
Director: Wang Xiaodi
Design(s): Ji Qiao, Yao Xiaoming (movement design)
Costume: Li Raying
Lighting: Xing Xin
Music: Dong Weijie