Xiqu Centre, West Kowloon Cultural District｜Black Box Chinese Opera Festival 2025 Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe: Experimental Kunqu Opera “Qingshan Embrace Me”

Description

Journey into the intimate inner world of a literary icon

The Song-dynasty poet Su Shi is one of the most celebrated literary luminaries in Chinese history, known for his intense and philosophical verses, unmatched charisma and unyielding personality. However, Qingshan Embrace Me, the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe’s original experimental work, offers a fresh portrait of the legendary writer, shedding light on his profound emotional depth and intimate bond with nature.

Blending the artistic traditions of Kunqu opera with daringly experimental modern stagecraft, the opera explores the tumultuous life of Su Shi through a richly human lens. As an incarcerated Su Shi reminisces on the joys and sorrows of his two decades as a civil servant, the story plunges into his inner spiritual world, turning a larger-than-life persona into a flesh-and-blood person.

Free from the boundaries of time and space, the audience is invited to embark on an odyssey through the present reality and past memories, gaining a glimpse deep into the many nuanced facets of this timeless icon.

Synopsis

Despite his renown as an unmatched literary talent, the Song-dynasty poet Su Shi has endured a fraught political career due to his uncompromising personality. Imprisoned after colleagues accused his poetry of opposing the Emperor-endorsed reform policies, Su reflects on the emotional journey of his twenty odd years in public service. His memories and contemplations are interwoven with events that transpire during his incarceration.

Runtime：Approximately 1 hour without intermission

Producer: Gu Haohao

Production Supervisor: Zhang Yongliang  

Executive Producers: Yang Lei, Feng Yuanjun, Wu Peng

Playwright: Lu Guanshan  

Director: Ding Yun  

Vocal and Music Designer: Gao Jun  

Stage Design: Tu Jun  

Lighting Design: Li Jiajun  

Costume Design: Xu Hongqing  

Makeup Design: Sun Yiyao  

Main Cast: Ni Xuhao, Sun Jinghua, Jia Zhe, Zhang Ting 

Percussion Ensemble Leader: Gao Jun 

Ensemble Leader: Hou Ji