An all-female Japanese dance troupe graced the Beijing stage over the weekend, presenting a play about French ruler Napoleon and a mash-up of the troupe's musical classics at the Tianqiao Performing Arts Center.

The love life of Napoleon Bonaparte was reincarnated on stage by Japan's Takarazuka Revue OG. 

Founded in 1913, the musical troupe distinguishes itself from similar groups in that the cast consists of unmarried women.

Once a member marries, she graduates, becoming a member of the Takarazuka OG – a slang term for "old generation." 

Their performance at the 20th Meet in Beijing Arts Festival brought together 23 OG members, including three TOP graduates.

As to what contributes to the troupe's endurance, Takarazuka OG member Hiroka Tsubaki told CGTN: "I grew up watching the Takarazuka Revue hoping to become one of them as a little girl. I think that's the secret, bringing quality shows and inspiring young performers."

Kayo Asano plays Josephine in the play about Napoleon. She said that she's very honored to perform in China and that they were overwhelmed by the Chinese fans' enthusiasm at their previous shows in Guangzhou. They hope to come back again and bring more joy to Chinese audiences.

The second half of the show consisted of musical numbers from other plays, including "The Rose of Versailles and "Elizabeth," both of which are considered Takarazuka Revue classics.

Yumyo Okabe, who directed the play on Napoleon, said a script based on the classic Chinese novel "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" is being prepared as a means of attracting a broader Chinese audience.

She added, "We didn't have much time to get it ready for this visit to Beijing but I do hope we can return soon with our version of the 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms' for a Chinese audience. I hope to see more cultural exchanges like this between our two countries."