Gillian Chung of Hong Kong pop duo Twins is likely to join Chen Kaige's star-studded cast in Mei Lanfang, portraying the young wife of the late Peking opera master.

Gillian Chung (left) is seen in this undated file photo with another Twins member Charlene Choi. Gillian Chung is likely to join Chen Kaige's star-studded cast in Mei Lanfang, portraying the young wife of the late Peking opera master.

The 26-year-old singer/actress recently arrived in Beijing to audition for the role of Fu Zhifang, and has won the thumbs-up from director Chen Kaige, says Tuesday's Shanghai Morning Post.

The newspaper also quoted Gillian Chung's agent as confirming the audition. But he described possible cooperation as "still under discussion."

If Gillian Chung joins the cast, she will share the role with Chen Kaige's wife, acclaimed actress Chen Hong, who will play the middle-aged Fu Zhifang.

Another Hong Kong pop star, Leon Lai, is currently busy polishing his skills in Peking opera preparing to take on the leading role - Mei Lanfang himself.

Actress Zhang Ziyi will also play one of Mei Lanfang's fellow Peking opera singers.

Born in 1894, Mei Lanfang was considered to have pioneered the tradition of males depicting female characters in Peking opera.

(CRI.cn June 5, 2007)