In memory of Mr Gu Zhaoshen – Kunqu “Peony Pavilion

EVENT DESCRIPTION

Presented by the YING Kamsha Chinese Opera Troupe, the performance “In memory of Mr Gu Zhaoshen: Kunqu “Peony Pavilion” aims to commemorate the renowned Hong Kong poet and writer, Mr Gu Zhaoshen. Not only was he a prolific writer, but he also dedicated himself to preserving, researching, and promoting traditional Kunqu opera. He has previously directed the opening plays of the 2016 Chinese Opera Festival in Hong Kong.

The “Peony Pavilion” script in this performance is a selection of excerpts from Mr Gu Zhaoshen’s original work, chosen from a collection of fifty-five plays, edited into a condensed version for a single evening. This premiere is a collaborative effort of artists from Mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Ying Kam Sha, Associate Professor at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts and recipient of the 24th China Theatre Plum Blossom Award, joins hands with renowned Taiwanese Kunqu opera artist Wen Yuhang as the leading cast. The production also extends an invitation to Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe) as the performance team, leading the orchestra, stage design, and some actors, with the aim of captivating audiences from Mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong with the charm of Kunqu opera.

Through the interpretation of the classic play “The Peony Pavilion,” adapted by Mr Gu Zhaoshen, this performance not only fulfills his legacy but also showcases his profound understanding of Kunqu opera, his spirit of respect for the original work, and his commitment to preserving traditional artistic concepts. It aims to promote the artistic allure of Kunqu opera as the origin of a hundred theatrical arts.