Chinese drama merges Western symphony, Peking Opera to tell paper-making legend

A Chinese drama about the legendary inventor of paper-making, who lived nearly 2,000 years ago, premiered in London on Thursday night, captivating the audience with a sensory spectacle that blends Western classical music with elements of Chinese culture.

At LSO St Luke's, two actors dressed in Peking Opera attire delivered their recitative lines in the traditional style, accompanied by an orchestra performing Richard Strauss's symphonic poem Ein Heldenleben.

"I think it's incredibly unique and imaginative, and I'm amazed at how the drama of the story seems to fit so amazingly well with the music," Alison Kiln told Xinhua after watching the show, adding that she had never experienced a live performance as "amazing" as this before.

Based on Strauss's iconic composition, the symphony poetry drama "Ein Heldenleben -- Cai Lun" offers a glimpse into the life and emotional struggles of Cai Lun, the inventor of the paper-making process during China's Han Dynasty (202 B.C.-220 A.D.).

Running for just one night, the show was co-presented by the Chen Xinyi Art Centre from Shanghai and the Fidelio Orchestra.