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This September, local audiences can enjoy world-class pingtan performances in the elegant setting of Tea House Theatre.
Led by renowned pingtan artist Gao Bowen, the Shanghai Pingtan Troupe will stage two performances in Hong Kong, featuring a stellar line-up of top pingtan performers including Liu Min, Ni Yingchun, Luo Wenlian, Mao Xinlin and Zhu Yihe.
Marked by its minimalist stage design, pingtan is an ancient musical narrative art form that originated in south-eastern China. Performances typically feature a solo artist in traditional cheongsam, singing, acting and playing an instrument at the same time. Despite the pared-down setup, an expert performer can narrate and act out a vividly engrossing story that captures the audience’s imagination. The characteristic use of jiangnan dialects and humour gives pingtan a uniquely charming regional flavour.
For the 23 September (Saturday) performance, the troupe has handpicked a selection of favourites that perfectly represent 12 of the most influential pingtan styles. They are performed by artists who are deemed to be leading inheritors of each style. It is a great opportunity for the audience to sample and compare the distinctive characteristics of a wide array of styles in one sitting.
This programme is co-presented by the Xiqu Centre and Shanghai Center of Chinese Operas, with the Lao Feng Xiang 175th Anniversary as title sponsor.
Programme:
Hosts: Gao Bowen, Zhu Lin
| Pingtan Selections | Performers |
|---|---|
| Overture: A Celebration in Hong Kong | Zhou Hui, Lu Jinhua, Zhu Lin, Tao Yingyun |
| “The Bragging of Zhu Zhishan” from Three Charming Smiles | Xu Yifeng |
| The Prologue from The Incognito Emperor | Lu Jiawei |
| “A Mid-Autumn Outing” from The Legend of the White Snake | Hou Xiaosheng, Tao Yingyun |
| The Prologue from Mantis' Wedding | Hao Hua |
| The Prologue from The Longing of Yingying | Zhou Hui |
| “Bitter Memories” from Token of Love | Lu Jinhua |
| The Prologue from Du Shiniang | Huang Haihua |
| The Prologue from The Royal Chambermaid | Luo Wenlian |
| "Night Visit" from Qinwen | Jiang Xiaobo |
| The Prologue from The Portrait | Liu Min |
| The Prologue from The Interrogation of Hongniang | Zhu Yihe |
| The Prologue from The Melancholic Concubine | Ni Yingchun |
| The Prologue from Wang Dakui’s Fantasy Life | Mao Xinlin |
| The Prologue from Liu Yi Delivers a Letter | Gao Bowen |
Alongside “Pingtan Styles Showcase”, Shanghai Pingtan Troupe performs “The Best of Shanghai Pingtan Troupe” on the afternoon of 24 September (Sunday).
Co-presented by:
Title Sponsor:
