The classical Chinese novel "The Family," originally published during the early 1930s, has been exposed to today's audiences in the form of a dance show, as reported by China Daily.
Written by Ba Jin, a renowned author from Sichuan Province, "The Family" tells the story of the Gao family, whose members struggle with the rigid traditions of their times. The three brothers featured in the novel have to make difficult choices regarding their love and freedom, ending up enduring their tribulations or running from them.
"It's a story about the pursuit of happiness," said He Chuan, the show's director and choreographer. "The characters have their flaws, but we still sympathize with them and are touched by their lives."
The novel, which was published during China's civil war, has been known to inspire young people to fight for change. It has become a national classic.
Ba's novel has been adapted several times in the form of TV dramas, films and a ballet.
"We need to look at our lives today and see what's lacking," said He.
The dance show will be a condensed version of the novel, leaving only four scenes--two weddings and two funerals--and removing most of the original story.
"We hope that the feelings in the book will be conveyed in the show," said Qi Ya, the show's playwright. "Today's audiences will relate to the story and think about their own dreams."
The dance show features award-winning actress Yu Erge in the role of Mingfeng, the novel's central heroine.
The Sichuan Song and Dance Ensemble used the show to open this year's Sichuan Art Festival in Chengdu. It will tour other Chinese cities this December.