Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe reinvents the classic "Song of the Lute Player"

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"We are all wanderers in this vast world, so why must we have met before?" This line, almost universally recognized by all Chinese, is from the poem "Pipa Xing", often translated as "Song of the Lute Player". This masterpiece by the renowned poet Bai Juyi undoubtedly stands as a jewel in the treasury of Classical Chinese poetry. Now The Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe presents a new version of this poem by the beautiful Huangpu river.

The narrative poem "Song of the Lute Player", composed by the great Tang poet Bai Juyi, consists of 88 lines and 616 characters, each line a precious gem filled with infinite meaning, making it an eternal classic. Back in 2000, this Kunqu Opera adaptation was first performed, stunning audience at the old Sanshan Guild Hall, becoming the first live-action Kunqu Opera piece in the country. The initial fourteen performances were completely sold out and received high praises.

After 24 years, the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe has collaborated once again with the esteemed director Zheng Dasheng, revitalizing "Song of the Lute Player" with a fresh classical vision. This time, the performance venue, transformed from an old shipyard into a riverside artistic sanctuary, perfectly merges classical elements with modernity, nature with culture.

This work explores human emotions and fate through music and artistry. The central narrative follows the life of the Tang Dynasty courtesan Qian Niang, who, after once basking in fame, finds herself in isolation after marriage. Ultimately, she expresses her pain and reminiscence through music during her struggles. The fateful encounter between Bai Juyi and Qian Niang by the river becomes the beginning of their intertwined destinies, with a deep bond between the poet and the musician woven throughout the tale.

This Kunqu performance not only serves as a tribute to the rich heritage of classic Chinese culture, but also invites modern audience to reconnect with this timeless story. Let’s celebrate this enchanting journey and revive the spirit of ancient beauty together!

Editor: FU


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