In Beijing this July, audiences were transported beneath the waves as a Chinese-French collaboration brought Jules Verne’s iconic “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” to life through the mesmerizing art of black light puppetry. This innovative stage adaptation immersed theatergoers in an underwater adventure, blending classic storytelling with cutting-edge visual effects.
The production utilized black light technology to create luminous sea creatures and a vibrant oceanic world that seemed to float in mid-air. Puppeteers dressed in black manipulated the glowing puppets, making Captain Nemo’s submarine, the Nautilus, and its deep-sea encounters appear as though they were moving on their own.
“We wanted to create an experience where the audience feels like they’re diving alongside the characters,” said Li Wei, one of the show’s directors. “Black light puppetry allows us to visualize the depths of the ocean in a way that’s both magical and immersive.”
The collaboration between Chinese and French artists merged Eastern and Western artistic traditions, showcasing the universal appeal of Verne’s 19th-century sci-fi novel. The production emphasized themes of exploration, environmental conservation, and the wonders of the natural world, resonating with young audiences.
For many in the crowd, it was their first time seeing a performance that combines puppetry with such advanced lighting techniques. “It was like watching a dream unfold on stage,” said Zhang Min, a university student. “The glowing creatures and the mysterious underwater scenes were unforgettable.”
The success of this adaptation highlights a growing interest in bringing classic literature to new generations through innovative artistic mediums. By reimagining “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea” with modern technology and cross-cultural collaboration, the production opened up conversations about the potential of theater to inspire and educate.
