After a year of preparation, the music and dance epic "Road to Revival" finally staged at Beijing's Great Hall of the People Sunday night.

In five acts, "Road to Revival" recalls the great cause of exploration, struggle, and development of China through the past 169 years.

The audience members are taken on a historic journey through the performance, and provide feedback with their cheers and applause. They shed tears for those who sacrificed their lives for the founding of New China, and are awed by the great achievement of the nation.

A spectator said, "I'm so inspired! I hope our motherland remains prosperous and peaceful forever! We are very impressed and feel sincerely proud to be Chinese. This play is a masterpiece!"

The innovative design of the stage, and lighting technology present a unprecedented experience for audiences.

The general director Zhang Jigang, who has dedicated himself to the huge project, was sitting among the audience members and enjoyed the debut show.

General director Zhang Jigang said, "I saw many of the audience members moved to tears and taking pictures with their mobile phones. I'm very satisfied that this performance is so welcomed. As a member of the production crew, I feel blessed."

"Road to Revival" will be staged every night until October 5th. The film edition of the stage play will be published during the National Day Holiday. China Central Television will broadcast the performance next Wednesday.

(CCTV September 22, 2009)