In an exclusive interview, we had the opportunity to delve into the enchanting new Peking opera titled “Heart’s Desire,” which premiered at the National Grand Theatre on the evenings of October 12 and 13. Set against a backdrop featuring the emblem of the Young Pioneers of China, the performance opened with a striking red curtain revealing a spotlight illuminating the stage. The audience was transported to a nostalgic world as the song echoed, “The red scarf is a corner of the red flag; the red scarf is dyed with the blood of our predecessors…” A charming story unfolded, centered around a spirited young boy who dreams of wearing the red scarf and joining the Young Pioneers.
Both the Beijing Peking Opera Company and the Beijing Academy of Drama collaborated on this fresh adaptation. From the very beginning, the performance generously showcased the vibrant spirit of old Beijing, with scenes depicting life in the early days of New China, set against the iconic White Pagoda in Beihai Park. The audience glimpsed a historical narrative over sixty years ago: small boats gliding through the water, pigeons soaring in the sky, and children joyously playing in the alleys. Young performers expertly displayed the four skills and five techniques of Peking opera, coupled with impressive acrobatic feats that enhanced the visual allure of the production.
Among the colorful cast of characters, a unique group stood out—over ten endearing geese, donned in pure white feathers. Their lively “Goose Dance” brought delight, as they even ventured into the audience for an interactive experience, endearing themselves to all with their playful antics. Leading this whimsical ensemble was Cao Yangyang, a first-level actor with the Beijing Peking Opera Company, who expressed his excitement saying, “This is my first time wearing a costume covered in feathers to portray an animal.” He explained that the geese symbolize various themes throughout the story; sometimes they embody the protagonist Lin Daling’s yearning for paternal affection, while at other points, they provide companionship in his solitude. The choreography was thoughtfully designed to mimic the geese’s natural movements, incorporating Peking opera techniques, including a breathtaking scene where a goose takes flight from a two-meter-high bridge to save someone.
As a red-themed production, “Heart’s Desire” cleverly weaves in comedy. The writers, Lin Wei and director Yan Rui, infused the narrative with humor, such as the moment Lin Daling trades his beloved goose for five yuan to save up for a red scarf, which leads to a comical fallout between them that had the audience in stitches.
The production’s theme song features lyrics by Zhang Heping and music by Zhu Shaoyu, celebrating the spirited essence of contemporary Young Pioneers with a captivating melody. The musical composition integrates traditional Chinese instruments while maintaining the authentic musical characteristics of Peking opera, enhancing its cultural richness. Additionally, long-time fans of opera will recognize familiar styles like Xipi, Erhuang, Gaobozi, and Sipingdiao, making this production appealing to audiences of all ages.
Guo Wei, a Qingyi performer and winner of the 31st Plum Blossom Award for Chinese Theater, plays Lin Daling’s mother in the production. She remarks that “Heart’s Desire” is an impressive work that is not only pleasing to the ears and eyes but also serves as a wonderful introduction to Peking opera for children and those unfamiliar with this traditional art form.
Looking ahead, the team is committed to refining the performance based on audience feedback and expert insights, while also planning to bring “Heart’s Desire” to schools across various levels for further engagement.
