Zhuangzi’s Dream
The Central Academy of Drama (Beijing, China)
This experimental physical theatre piece boldly deconstructs the
philosophical classic Zhuang Zhou, Dreams of a Butterfly and the
folk-legend, Zhuang Zhou Tests His Wife, to explore the essence of
humanity, love and existence. Set in the lacquer garden of the Warring
States period, the work blends traditional shadow puppetry, stylised
Chinese opera and avant-garde theatrical language. The surreal world,
inspired by Tao philosophy, intertwines reality and illusion. The
audience embarks on a philosophical journey that asks , how does one
prove existence? and touches upon the true nature of life itself.
Performed in Mandarin.
Performed by | Zhu Yuhan, Li Yuxuan, Peng
Haoran, Zhang Gaojian, Xu Nuo Performing Unit The Central Academy of
Drama, China
Playwright | Chen Mengfan
Directed by | Ge
Yuanliang
Presenting Producer | Hao RongExecutive Producer: Sun
Daqing
Artistic Executive Producers | Yang Shuo, Li Shan
Produced
by | Jiang Dan
Set Designer | Zhang Huaxiang
Lighting Designed
| Qu Ming
Costume Designed | Cui Xiaodong
Makeup Designed | Sun
Xiaohong
Shadow Puppetry and Puppet Designer | Li Shute
Video
Designed by | Li Dongqing
Composer and Arranger | Wei Gangyuan
Sound
Designer | Du Siliang
Intangible Cultural Heritage Consultant |
Dang Feihua
Foreign Affairs Coordinator | Ju Ping
Language Performed in Chinese with English surtitles
Dates 4 August to 11 August 2025 at 14:50 (0hr50)
Format Live in-person
-
Dance Physical Theatre and Circus
-
£12.00 -
4-11 August 2025 -
50 minutes -
C ARTS | C venues | C aurora -
main house -
3+ (guidance) -
None
