On October 8, reporters learned that the Beijing Qu Opera Troupe has exciting news to share. With support from the National Arts Fund and the Beijing Cultural Arts Fund, they are gearing up to perform their new production, “My Lifetime,” at the 28th BeSeTo (China, Korea, Japan) Theater Festival in South Korea. This festival, organized by the Korea Asian Culture Center Foundation, will feature performances on October 12 and 13, 2024. Notably, the China Dramatists Association has chosen this production as one of just two to represent the country at a national level.
Beijing Qu Opera, the only regional opera form in the capital, is known for its unique artistic appeal and deep cultural roots. “My Lifetime,” adapted from the celebrated novel by iconic writer Lao She, chronicles the protagonist’s tumultuous life during a past era. The narrative poignantly illustrates the struggles of ordinary people who feel helpless against fate, set against a backdrop of a decaying, tumultuous society. Despite facing repeated hardships, the clever and socially aware protagonist fights to preserve his dignity, ultimately experiencing a tragic downfall. Through humor and sharp wit, the play captures the duality of harsh realities and a profound love for humanity, blending laughter, anger, and warmth.
In an interview, Cui Di, the head of the Beijing Qu Opera Troupe, emphasized the years of refinement that have shaped this production into something truly special. “We’ve infused Lao She’s classic work with the distinctive flair of Qu Opera, integrating modern elements and innovative approaches in the script, stage design, and musical composition.” He noted that performing in South Korea will present a fantastic opportunity for Beijing Qu Opera to connect with various theatrical styles, encouraging creative exchanges and inspiring further artistic development. “The interaction among different artistic expressions could ignite new ideas and enrich the evolution of Beijing Qu Opera’s form and content.”
The performances of “My Lifetime” are set to take place at the Asia Culture Center (ACC) in Gwangju, South Korea. The BeSeTo Theater Festival is an important collaborative platform for theater artists from China, Japan, and South Korea, offering a unique space to showcase and discuss their creative work.
