Reviving the classics

The theater delayed restaging the classic for years because of the challenges of finding the right leading actor to portray Wei. According to Feng, casting is critical to capturing the essence of the story. The role of Wei requires a unique blend of talent — acting techniques, life experience, charisma, and most importantly, naturally exuding the vibe of a traditional Chinese opera — that's not easy to find.

A few years ago, when Feng first saw Liu Heng, a Kunqu actor with The Northern Kunqu Opera Theatre, he immediately felt that Liu matched the image of Wei in his mind. Even though Liu had no experience performing in plays, Feng decided to train him to become this character.