based on an ancient Chinese legend about a man named Xu Xian who unknowingly falls in love with a snake spirit named Bai Suzhen, was one of my most anticipated performances at the Fringe. The legend originates to the 9th century, but the story has shifted over the years to suit the changing attitudes and tastes of its audience. This version ends a little happier than some depicted – which this soft girl was grateful for – but it was each element of the production itself made this performance unforgettable to me and the nearly-sold out audience.
A band dressed in black sat in the corner with a vary of traditional Chinese instruments, including from what I could see, an erhu, gong, dizi or reed pipe, lute, paiban and several types of percussion instruments. Many of them would play two of more of these instruments throughout the performance and set the mood and tempo for each scene. Performed in Mandarin with English subtitles, the cast were immaculately dressed with the exaggerated make-up and extravagant headdresses traditional to the operatic style.
Their high melodic tones were beautiful, of professionally quality, carrying with them the right emotion of the scene in cohesion with the musicians. With delicate light steps, the performer’s appeared to glide across the stage. A fight scene between Bai Suzhen and sprits garden a mountain could have ben clumsy, however, it was was choregraphed beautifully, each performer’s awareness of the stage, their own body and other’s positions clear in every deliberate movement.
A phenomenal production of from Northern Kunqu Opera. Author Posts navigation To request a media pack contact [email protected].
uk We at Scottish Field endeavour to ensure that all our reports are fair and accurate and comply with the Editors’ Code of Practice set by the Independent Press Standards Organisation (IPSO). We realise, however, that mistakes happen from time to time. If you think we have made a significant mistake and you wish to discuss this with us, please let us know as soon as possible by any of the three methods: emailing ; telephoning the editor on 0131 551 1000; writing to the Editor at Scottish Field, 496 Ferry Road, Edinburgh, EH5 2DL.
We will attempt to resolve your issue in a timeous, reasonable and amicable manner. However, if you are unsatisfied with our response, you can contact IPSO, which will investigate the matter. You can either telephone IPSO on 0300 123 2220 or email .
IPSO is an independent body which deals with complaints from the public about the editorial content of newspapers and magazines. We will abide by the decision of IPSO. © SCOTTISH FIELD.
All rights reserved..
