Tang Xianzu the Playwright in Concert

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https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/events/past-events/opera/2019/tang-the-playwright-in-concert.html

Date Reviewed: 07/04/2019

Review written by Cassie Cheeseman

A unique and powerful production steeped in history

Affectionately known as the Shakespeare of the East, Tang Xianzu is considered a literary genius. In an ode to his brilliance, this careful blend of supreme operatic voices and the Symphony Orchestra of the Shanghai Conservatory of Music travelled to the Sydney Opera House for one night only to perform Tang Xian Zu: A Playwright in Concert presented by Ausfeng Event Productions Pty Ltd.

Understandably, the opera was performed in Mandarin. To perform in English would have been an insult to the beautiful composition constructed by composer Xu Jianqiang and Lyricist Lin Zaiyong. We were fortunate to be provided with limited English subtitles which ensure the production was highly accessible to English-only speakers. However, no doubt, the true magic was in the overall production value, including the Shanghai Conservatory of Music Symphony Orchestra, two actors to perform the part of Tang Xian Zu and countless others, the performance was ginormous in ways which transcend language barriers.

A total of 4 Acts were offered throughout this evening. Telling the story of Tang Xian Zu, the story begins with a recount of time in his twenties studying dutifully to achieve excellence. This continued through to Act 2 where he deals with his internal struggle to help the people of China. An emotive Act 3 saw Tang manage to make a difference through his people-oriented policies to improve life and wellbeing. The production concluded with a heart-warming Epilogue, with Tang’s newest work being performed in his home at the age of 50.

The production was greatly heightened by the sheer talent of each individual performer. The abilities of each musician from the Shanghai Conservatory of Music Symphony Orchestra are indisputable and combines to form one of the most experienced and skilled orchestras in China. Likewise, the singers offered high level abilities that left the audience in awe. A personal favourite was the performances by Chen Jingwei who played the part of Madam Wu with a highly refined level of elegance and grace which made her a pleasure to watch.

Costume and set design were equally well considered, and each individual costume perfectly presented the historic nature of the performance. Spotlighting was used well to highlight the main performers and convey the appropriate mood at each moment in the evening. Recognition need also be given to Wang Nannan who, as sound engineer, had a mammoth task in coordinating the large cast and each technical aspect.

The venue was well chosen and offered the essential acoustic potential required for such a performance. Native Chinese, First Generation Australians and those completely devoid of Chinese cultural backgrounds alike can all find something to enjoy in this beautiful production. Tang Xian Zu: The Playwright in Concert was a beautifully orchestrated masterpiece offering all ages an accessible and engaging link to such significant moments in Chinese history.