Emotional masterpiece Night, Mother returns to Beijing People's Art Theater

The second round of Chinese play Night, Mother is being staged at the small theater of Beijing People's Art Theater until April 15.

Adapted from the play of the same title by US author Marsha Norman, the production depicts the relentless emotional exchange between Thelma and her daughter, Jessie, after Jessie reveals her intention to take her own life. As Thelma endeavors to dissuade Jessie, the latter, who has been caring for her mother, methodically attends to household tasks and prepares Thelma for life after her departure.

Originally premiering on Broadway in 1983, Night, Mother secured the Tony Award for Best Play and the 1983 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. In 2023, Chinese director Tang Ye's adaptation garnered widespread acclaim, largely due to the compelling performances by actresses Gong Lijun and Sun Yilin.

Tang emphasized that the play delves into the complexities of the mother-daughter relationship, prompting many viewers to share their own experiences online after watching the production.

Audiences have expressed that the play served as a form of healing, providing insights into coping with depression and fostering improved communication with their mothers, Tang said.