China Children's Art Theater's original stage play "Twelve Zodiac Signs" was performed twice in Sydney, attracting more than 2,000 audiences

China News Service, Sydney, September 26 (Reporter Bo Wenwen) China Children's Art Theater's original visual stage play "The Dragon Child" was performed twice in Sydney, Australia on the 26th, attracting more than 2,000 audiences.

The play is inspired by the traditional Chinese zodiac culture and is directed by Australian director, screenwriter and puppet artist Peter Wilson. The work has almost no dialogue and tells a story about love, growth and the harmonious coexistence of man and nature through live performances, puppets, music, dance and stage visual design. Wilson previously stated in an interview with reporters in Sydney that the creative team hopes to find a stage language that does not require translation so that audiences of different cultures, languages ​​and ages can enter the story.

"I have always firmly believed that artists from different cultures sharing their own ideas, cultural traditions, skills, stories and world views can generate powerful power." Wilson believes that "Zodiac" is such a rare opportunity for cooperation. Australian and Chinese artists brought their respective creative experiences into the rehearsal room and created a unique work through listening, sharing and understanding.

Since its premiere in Beijing during the Spring Festival in 2008, "Zodiac" has been performed in Australia, Vietnam, Mexico, the United States, Japan and other countries, and has been well received by local audiences.

On September 26, local time, the stage play "Zodiac" was performed in Sydney, Australia. The picture shows the Australian audience taking photos with the cast and crew. Photo by China News Service reporter Bo Wenwen

Watching the play again after more than ten years, Australian stage director Richard Jedroni was filled with emotion. He told reporters that seeing the troupe's re-created sets and costumes, as well as some of the actors who participated in the performance back on stage, made him feel that this work is still full of vitality.

Audience member Rebecca has watched the China Children's Art Theater's plays many times, and this time she made a special trip to bring her 7-year-old daughter. She believes that this work jointly created by Chinese and Australian artists is unique in its form of expression.

"This is a very cute show." Audience Tony Rudolph said that each character is very distinct and the story is clearly expressed, making him immersed in it. (over)