Best bets

NCPA Commission and Chinese Epic Opera The Long March

Date: June 28-July 3 - 7:30 pm

Venue: National Centre for the Performing Arts

After the failure of the 5th countercampaign against encirclement and suppression in October 1934, the Red Army is about to depart from Ruijin. After receiving the transfer order, Commander Zeng and Commissar Peng from a regiment of the Central Red Army cannot bear to abandon the sick and wounded to the enemy. Doctor Hong, Commissar Peng's wife, also stays to look after them. After the Xiangjiang River Campaign, the Red Army enters Zunyi and gets a chance to consolidate. The Zunyi Meeting Announcement is proclaimed late that night, which marks a historic turning point in the Chinese revolution. Chased by the enemy, the soldiers start a raid of 120 kilometers over the course of an entire day. They seize Luding Bridge marking the successful breakout. Ping Yazi, a young soldier, bravely tastes the wild plants but is poisoned and dies a heroic death. When the Red Army joins forces in Huining, Commissar Peng receives the last letter from Doctor Hong. This letter motivates the soldiers. The opera ends with the chorus Long Live the Long March.

Drama The Father Starring Zhao Lixin and Jin Xing

Date: July 6-8 - 7:30 pm

Venue: National Centre for the Performing Arts

If you ask me which country's fathers are happiest, I will without hesitation tell you they are fathers in Sweden, who can enjoy 16 months of parental leave. Relishing the joys of family life for 480 days, while collecting a federal stipend, is the word sweet enough? They say research has shown that men who take paternity leave do live longer. But, let's take a closer look at a Swedish father, who is supporting his family, in addition to a disavowing a mother-in-law, and missing out on paternal bliss amid allegations that his wife is having an affair. The mighty three stars of his captain's insignia do not carry much weight at home anymore, while the problem is eating him alive. Zhao Lixin is an actor, director, screenwriter, and has been praised as a factotum among China's actors. He graduated from the State Film Academy of Russia, is fluent in four languages, and has directed and acted at the Swedish National Theatre. Jin Xing is a renowned Chinese modern dancer, actress and talk show host.