Beijing’s theatrical scene has been electrified by the debut of ‘The Summoning of Dunhuang’, a groundbreaking musical drama that fuses ancient history with cutting-edge technology. Performed at the iconic National Speed Skating Oval, the production brings the rich legacy of Dunhuang to life through a mesmerizing blend of music, dance, and digital innovation.
The show features renowned artist Zhang Yixing in a dual role, portraying two characters connected across a century. In 1935, he embodies Chang Shuhong, the real-life painter who returned to China from France to protect Dunhuang’s cultural heritage. Fast forward to 2035, Zhang Yixing plays Zhang Ran, a young intern at the Dunhuang Digital Research Center. Their intertwined stories explore themes of love, dedication, and the timeless value of cultural preservation.
“This musical drama combines the profound history of the past with innovative digital technology to create an immersive aesthetic experience,” Zhang Yixing shared. “I hope the audience will fall in love with the legacy of Dunhuang and uncover more layers of its rich, interpretable culture.”
The production’s use of expansive digital screens transforms the stage, seamlessly transporting the audience between eras and settings. From recreated scenes of 1930s Paris to futuristic depictions of Dunhuang, the visual effects enhance the storytelling in unprecedented ways.
Audience members have been captivated by the show’s innovation. “It’s quite different from typical plays, musicals, or dance dramas,” remarked one viewer. “The integration of technology adds a whole new dimension to the experience.”
Following its successful Beijing debut, ‘The Summoning of Dunhuang’ is set to enchant audiences in Shanghai, continuing its mission to share this powerful cultural story with a broader audience.
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Music drama 'The Summoning of Dunhuang' blends history and innovation
cgtn.com
