Tapestry of longing and love transcends borders

Chinese classic, A Dream of Red Mansions, staged in Singapore as more foreign destinations beckon, Chen Nan reports.

As the stage lights dim, a soft, ethereal melody fills the air, setting the atmosphere for the evening. The audience, nestled in the plush seats of the grand theater, feels an unspoken anticipation. They are about to witness a tale that had transcended centuries, a Chinese dance drama, A Dream of Red Mansions, that encapsulated the intricate tapestry of love and loss.

The dance drama, commissioned by the Jiangsu Centre for the Performing Arts, made its debut at the Esplanade — Theatres on the Bay in Singapore last month, attracting an audience of about 7,000, as it started its first tour outside China.

At the center of the stage, a large silk curtain hung, shimmering like a portal to another world. As it slowly drew back, the scene unfolded: a meticulously crafted presentation of the Jia family, adorned with traditional Chinese architecture, immersing the audience in the grandeur of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Jia Baoyu, the leading character, clad in red, appeared onstage, and the fates of the "12 beauties" began to unravel.

A Dream of Red Mansions, written by Cao Xueqin of the Qing Dynasty, one of the four ancient Chinese literature classics, has been a constant inspiration for artists. It has been adapted into various art forms, such as TV dramas, movies and traditional Chinese operas.

Premiering in 2021, the dance drama, directed and choreographed by Li Xing and Li Chao, has gained wide popularity and has been staged nationwide for more than 250 shows.