Would a Japanese-minded, Chinese-speaking Hamlet be innovative enough to impress you? Figure it out for yourself this October in Beijing.

Japanese theatrical director Keita Asari (L) and Chinese actor Wang Ban promote the upcoming play "Hamlet" at a press conference in Beijing on July 23, 2008.

Japan's renowned theatrical director, Keita Asari, will present a well-received 1968 version of "Hamlet," along with actors from the Beijing People's Art Theater, the Beijing Youth Daily reported Thursday.

Asari's "Hamlet" debuted in 1968 to celebrate the 15th anniversary of his Shiki Theater Company, which is now one of the most successful theaters in Asia.

That adaptation was hailed by critics as a "revived classic play." It has since become a fixture on Japanese stages.

Wang Ban, an up-and-coming Chinese actor who will play Hamlet in the Beijing production, paid a special visit to Japan last year to watch the show. He told the Beijing Youth Daily that he was impressed by Asari's style.

"Hamlet" is slated to open at the Beijing Capital Theater on October 1.

(CRI July 25, 2008)