drama.jpg (Photo : China Daily)
A new dance drama celebrating the 120th anniversary of iconic Peking opera actor Mei Lanfang will be staged at Poly Theater in Beijing on Dec. 9 and 10, according to a China Daily report.
Eponymously titled "Mei Lanfang," the drama is produced by ensemble Liaoning Song and Dance Troupe, which is a storied troupe group itself.
Former ensemble performer Luo Yichun, now the ensemble's director, wrote the script for the opera, which premiered in October in Liaoning Province in northeast China.
The life of Mei, who was Peking Opera's biggest performer during his time, has been told in past works, including the Chen Kaige-directed 2008 film "Forever Enthralled" and a production by Guangzhou Ballet Troupe in 2009.
With this dance drama, however, Luo has chosen to focus on the creativity and work of the opera star.
"The dance drama is not a biography of Mei. We interpret how he revived Peking Opera traditions with his own creations, shaping a style of his own and giving birth to the Mei School," Luo said.
Luo also said that the play explores Mei's philosophy and the process that led to the creation of his own style.
"We use abstract dance movements to tell how the late master devoted himself to his career," the director said.
The production is set to be performed around the country after the Beijing dates.
