The recent performance of "The Peach Blossom Fan" by the Jiangsu Kun Qu Opera Theatre in Beijing, under the theme of "One Play, Two Perspectives," showcasd a powerful lineup. Not only did it bring the brilliance of this classic Chinese masterpiece back to the stage, but it also demonstrated over 30 years of dedication from generations of artists in refining and innovating the presentation of this timeless work. Through meticulous exploration and polishing, they have upheld tradition while injecting new elements into both the form and content of the performance, showcasing the enduring charm of this eternal masterpiece.
The "One Play, Two Perspectives" rendition of "The Peach Blossom Fan" is divided into two major performances: the "Complete Version" and the "Selected Scenes," each lasting three hours. The stage design is minimalistic, highlighting the exquisite performances. In the "Complete Version," consisting of nine acts, the main focus is on the love story between Hou Fangyu and Li Xiangjun, emphasizing the integrity of the narrative. On the other hand, the "Selected Scenes" include five excerpts, allowing enough space for the characters of Ruan Dacheng, Li Xiangjun, Li Zhenli, Hou Fangyu, and Shi Kefa to show themselves. It places more emphasis on the entertainment value of the performance. This arrangement deviates from the common forms of traditional opera performances such as "linked scripts", "complete versions", "essential versions", or "condensed versions". Both major performances have their own emphasis, complementing each other and offering audiences a unique viewing experience.
Kong Shangren's original work includes a set of deeply poignant Northern-style tunes called "Lament for the South," expressing the sorrow of the nation's rise and fall. In the "One Play, Two Perspectives" rendition of "The Peach Blossom Fan," the "Lament for the South" suite is placed at the beginning of the "Complete Version". Actors are clad in simple garments sequentially singing, evoking a sense of desolation and sorrow through the retrospective method. Audiences are immersed into a mood of melancholy. In the "Selected Scenes" performance, the "Lament for the South" suite is placed at the end of the play. Actors return to the stage as characters sing with heartfelt sorrow, echoing the beginning and end of the "Complete Version" performance, and highlighting the main theme of the entire play, which is to "express the feeling of rise and fall through separation and reunion". This can be seen as a masterstroke in enhancing the overall impact of the performance.
When Gong Yinlei and Shi Xiaming, two distinguished "Plum Performance Award" Kun Qu opera actors, portray a pair of lovers separated by an imaginary door that doesn't exist on the stage. They sing of the heart-wrenching distance between them, despite being physically close. This adaptation not only enhances the tragic tone but also highlights the characters' personalities. Audiences are deeply moved by such a performance.
The one-act play "Fengzhou" in the "Selected Scenes" is also a highly praised adaptation among opera enthusiasts. The protagonist of this play is Li Zhenli, the foster mother of Li Xiangjun in the brothel, a character with minimal emphasis in the "Complete Version." However, in "Fengzhou", the story focuses on Li Zhenli's fate after marrying Tian Yang, being driven out by Tian's jealous wife, and eventually marrying an old soldier, leading a turbulent life on the river.
The most striking aspect of this version of "The Peach Blossom Fan" is undoubtedly the portrayal of "Shi Kefa's Sacrifice," depicted vividly in both the "Complete Version" and the "Selected Scenes." This can be considered the essence of the play. Dressed in a white costume, the renowned Kun Qu opera actor, Ke Jun, delivers an emotionally charged performance, portraying a tragic hero filled with dignity but unfortunate circumstances. His passionate singing, nuanced characterization, and physically demanding performance deeply resonate with the audience, evoking strong emotions.
Kun Qu opera represents a harmonious fusion of elegant literature and refined performance. It delves into themes of humanity, emotions, the era, and destiny, imbuing it with significant cultural value and artistic allure. The performance of "The Peach Blossom Fan" by the Jiangsu Kun Qu Opera Theatre in Beijing, whether at the Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center or the Peking University Centennial Hall, has received excellent box office results and critical acclaim. Moreover, it has garnered substantial praise from young audiences and discerning theater enthusiasts. This success underscores the seamless integration of traditional classics with contemporary interpretations, showcasing both heritage and innovation. With its enduring appeal and vitality, especially in an era that values humanistic spirit more than ever, it is poised to attract even more audiences and admirers.
Translator: BAI Jing
Reviewer: SHEN Ruixuan
