'Popeye' transformed into rock musical

A rock musical adapted from the cartoon Popeye was promoted at a press conference in Beijing on Tuesday.

According to music director Fan Chong, Popeye is part of his childhood memories and an indispensable part of his growth. Fan wanted to use rock music to show the struggles of an ordinary hero, and helped create 14 original songs for the musical.

Director Li Zongxi explains the musical is different from the cartoon, since they add more characters and dramatic conflicts into the story, making a simple storyline more interesting.

"I hope our audience can believe in love and courageously face up to challenges in life just like Popeye," says Li.