Monkey King's new adventure on stage
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School is out and the summer holiday has arrived. Young audiences in Beijing are being offered plenty of shows in theatres, from classic children's plays from the east and the west, to the latest productions in the country. Now let's take a look at what's in store.
Just Kungfu? It's far less than what the Monkey King can do in his new adventure. How about street dancing? It's hard to say whether the original creator Wu Cheng'en who gave the life to Monkey King four centuries ago would like it or not, but today's young viewers do like the new stunts.
It's the final episode of the drama "Journey to the West" produced by China Children's Art Theatre. Now, a complete performance of the three episodes falls on three consecutive nights and is treated for fans of the Monkey King, a symbol of intelligence, bravery and righteousness.
Zhou Yuyuan, head of China Children's Art Theatre, said, "The new play of "Journey to the West" is the result of 4-years effort. Many parents grow up along with the adventure of the Monkey King. Now it's time for them to re-experience the memory of childhood with their kids together."
Kids in Beijing can also learn more about the Shanghai World Expo. They are invited to take a theatrical adventure with "Haibao", the mascot of the Expo. It's a time-travel tale that sends a clear message about how to make a "better city, better life."
How does the play deliver a clear message without being dull? The young viewers themselves help the most. Their advice was heard as the play was under production. Now, as it is staged, they still have a say.
Wang Ying, general manager of Beijing Children's Art Theatre, said, "For instance, the audience decides how to treat the rubbish, throw it away or recycle it. The performers then follow the audience's choice. For children, it's more impressive than the traditional expression."
And, Disney will present the "Three Classic Fairy Tales: Snow White, Cinderella, and Beauty and the Beast." The show will be performed in Mandarin, tailored for Chinese audiences. While for kids aged three or two are special version's of shows like "Three Little Pigs", "Pippi Longstocking" and some original domestic plays.
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