On October 14, the Beijing People’s Art Theatre kicked off its Shanghai residency with a performance of the much-acclaimed play “Teahouse” at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music Opera House. This marks the beginning of a month-long engagement in Shanghai, featuring five exemplary works: “Teahouse,” “The Mutiny,” “Sunrise,” “Du Fu,” and “Under the Red Flag.”
“Teahouse,” a classic by Lao She, has been lauded as a “miracle on the Oriental stage.” Since its debut at the Capital Theatre in 1958, it has enjoyed over 60 years of performances by the Beijing People’s Art Theatre. Set against the backdrop of the “Lao Yutai” teahouse, the play explores the joys and sorrows of various characters, providing insight into nearly half a century of social change. The current performance features prominent actors such as Liang Guanhua and Pu Cunxin, showcasing the enduring vitality of “Teahouse” today.
The play “The Mutiny,” adapted from Herman Wouk’s novel “The Caine Mutiny,” is another highlight of the Beijing People’s Art Theatre’s repertoire. Recognized as a “textbook” and “touchstone” for theatre, it recreates an authentic courtroom drama where all characters—including lawyers, plaintiffs, defendants, jurors, and witnesses—take turns in a riveting debate. The exchange of sharp dialogue and layered courtroom questioning immerses the audience in a tense atmosphere.
In 2021, director Feng Yuanzheng’s new adaptation of “Sunrise” injected fresh energy into this classic work, originally created over 80 years ago. With a youthful cast and innovative stage techniques incorporating digital imagery, the production offers a dialogue between tradition and modernity, expanding the narrative’s scope.
“Du Fu,” renowned for its classical beauty, poetic narrative style, and deep cultural significance, has resonated with audiences. Centered on the real-life experiences and emotional struggles of the “Poet Sage,” the play paints a profound portrait of Du Fu, revealing the inner turmoil and noble spirit that marked his life while bringing the essence of his poetry to the stage.
“Under the Red Flag” presents a fresh interpretation of Lao She’s final works, narrated from his perspective. It vividly captures the character of late Qing Dynasty Beijing, illustrating the shifts of an era while inviting viewers to discern the bittersweet humor and empathy woven into Lao She’s writing.
“The Beijing People’s Art Theatre’s performances in Shanghai carry a legacy. In 1988, our debut here made significant waves,” said Feng Yuanzheng, the theatre’s director. He explained that the lineup for the Shanghai residency is both historically significant and forward-looking. “Both ‘Teahouse’ and ‘The Mutiny’ were performed by the previous generation of actors in 1988; now, a new generation takes the stage. ‘Sunrise’ showcases the emerging talent of Beijing People’s Art Theatre, while ‘Du Fu’ represents innovative approaches to historical dramas, and ‘Under the Red Flag’ marks a revival of this unique Beijing-style theatre after 70 years. The selection of these five plays reflects our current generation’s commitment to presenting classics.”
