Poetic and romantic: bringing the elegance of classical China into the contemporary INTRODUCTION Melodic and refined, Kun opera is one of China’s oldest and most influential theatre traditions. The 600-year-old art form was proclaimed as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2001. Taking a 1,300-year-old poem from the Tang dynasty as inspiration, this new production is an epic tale of star-crossed lovers that spans the worlds of men, ghosts and deities. With Zhang Jun leading a cast of the biggest names in Kun and Beijing opera, Blossoms on a Spring Moonlit Night unites the leading lights of Chinese opera and theatre from mainland China and Taiwan; they capture the romance and elegance of Kun opera while introducing a contemporary aesthetic. This landmark production is a feast for the eyes and ears for both novices and aficionados of Chinese opera. Dubbed “the prince of Kun Opera” for his consummate performances, Zhang specialises xiaosheng role (young man’s role) and has won many major prizes in China, including the nation’s top performing honour, the Plum Blossom Award. He is dedicated to bringing Kun opera to a wider audience, taking part in many crossover collaborations, including the opera Marco Polo by Tan Dun commissioned by HKAF in 1997, jazz singer Bobby McFerrin and violinist Charlie Siem. He is the second Chinese artist to be named as a UNESCO Artist for Peace after Gong Li. PRODUCTION Written by Luo Zhou Directed by Li Xiaoping SPECIAL NOTES With Chinese and English surtitles Approx 3 hrs incl one interval