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Family-friendly, Visual art, Puppetry, Dance Physical Theatre and Circus, Experimental - Edinburgh Fringe

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.

Written by | Chen Mengfan

Performed by | members of The Central Academy of Drama, China: Zhu Yuhan; Li Yuxuan; Peng Haoran; Zhang Gaojian; Xu Nuo

Directed by | Ge Yuanliang
Presenting Producer | Hao Rong
Produced by | Jiang Dan
Executive Produced by | Sun Daqing
Artistic Executive Produced by | Yang Shuo and Li Shan
Set Design by | Zhang Huaxiang
Lighting Design by | Qu Ming
Costume Design by | Cui Xiaodong
Makeup Design by | Sun Xiaohong
Shadow Puppetry and Puppet Design by | Li Shute
Video Designed by | Li Dongqing
Composed and Arranged by | Wei Gangyuan
Sound Design by | 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

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    • Dance Physical Theatre and Circus
    • £12.00
    • 4-11 August 2025
    • 50 minutes
    • C ARTS | C venues | C aurora
    • subvenue main house
    • 3+ (guidance)
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    Venue

    C ARTS | C venues | C aurora

    Lauriston Halls, 28 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh EH3 9DJ (venue 6)

    +44 (0)131 581 5555

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    Lauriston Halls, 28 Lauriston Street, Edinburgh EH3 9DJ (venue 6)

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