theater » ARTS
a star-studded cast that includes China National Opera and Dance Theatre veteran Ding Wei, who stars as her ruthless father. “He is resented for being a cruel boss,” Ding notes of his character. “It’s easy to believe that he regards his daughter’s happiness as leverage, but he’s also a father. He knows that Xu attracts far too much danger for his daughter to have a happy life.” What does bring a smile to Chengcheng’s face is a sterling wardrobe of qipaos, gowns and dresses provided by Hong Kong Film Awards winner Hai Chung-man. Mo merrily reveals, “I have about nine costume changes, all of which are delicately tailored and matched with different shoes. It’s like a dream come true.” The two-hour musical drama is a visual spectacle that incorporates the latest in 3D holographic imaging technology. Classic songs from the era like a Shanghainese version of ‘Wandering Singsong Girl’ and a Mandarin take on ‘Rose Rose, I Love You’ have been seamlessly added to the story. The production also involves several international masters. Choreographer Bob Richard is a Broadway veteran who has worked on hits like Oliver! and How the Grinch Stole Christmas: The Musical. For Shanghai Bund, he blends a variety of styles ranging from jazz to ballroom dance, while incorporating disparate elements from Peking Opera to Michael Jackson into the moves. Serving as the show’s art advisor is Kim Hyo-jung, who is widely praised as “the godfather of South Korean musical dramas.” Kim has high praise for the production, stating “the show is ready for the world, not just Shanghai.” It’s an ambition that Wang shares. While performed in Mandarin, subtitles are provided in English, Japanese and Korean. The show debuted last year with a months-long run at Yunfeng Theatre. As it draws closer to its 100th show, Wang admits that the public reception “hasn’t been bad, but it’s still not as good as we expected.” “Local audiences are still new to this type of musical drama,” he explains. “Thus, it’s our priority to draw their attention to the art form.” However, he remains optimistic that Shanghai Bund will lead a golden age in domestic musical dramas and become a staple in the city. “We hope one day that this musical will be a must-see for anyone who comes to Shanghai.”
This show is ready for the world, not just Shanghai.
// Thurs-Sun, 7.15pm, RMB180-880. JDF Yunfeng Theatre, 1700 Beijing Xi Lu, by Jiaozhou Lu 北京西路 1700号, 近胶州路 (en.damai.cn).
WIN We have a pair of tickets to Shanghai Bund to give away. For your chance to win, add Thats_ Shanghai on WeChat or scan the QR code. www.thatsmags.com / June 2015
53