Leading theaters present ancient and modern Chinese classics

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In Beijing, two of the country's most prestigious theater companies are presenting time-honored classics.

First staged more than two millennia ago, "Agamemnon" has come alive in the capital. In a joint production by the National Theatre Company of China and the Greek National Theater, the story is presented against a minimalist set.

Through passionate dialogues and vehement body language, actors from both countries have mounted a thought-provoking interpretation of the thrilling story from Aeschylus. Set in the aftermath of the Trojan War, it explores the conflicts between public duty and family obligations.

A still from "Agamemnon." /VCG Photo

"It's an old story, first told some 2,500 years ago," said Luo Tong, the script translator. "But it still looks so fresh and relevant today. It's about war, justice, revenge, and homecoming. In every age, every human community has to confront such issues.

"So the play still provokes our thought today. That's what has made Greek drama so enduring. It's a terrific experience."

Also in the Chinese capital, the Beijing People's Art Theatre (BPAT) is staging a more recent classic.

A still from "Teahouse." /VCG Photo

Written in 1957, "Teahouse" is one of the masterpieces of Lao She, a giant in China's modern literature. It explores the vicissitudes of modern Chinese society in a downtown teahouse catering to people from all walks of life. Over the decades, "Teahouse" has been a favorite in the repertoire of the BPAT.

"We stage the play almost every year. It has become kind of a tradition at our theater. We consider it our mission to present the classic repertory to theatergoers. They never stop fascinating us," said Ren Ming, director of the BPAT.

Apart from classic plays, the BPAT is also mounting more new plays this year.

A still from "Teahouse." /VCG Photo

"Actually the plays are the greatest assets for a theater company," said Ren, "We've made many policies to acquire high-quality plays and incentivize our writers. New plays are essential for us to expand our audience and reach them. We have to stay in touch with our times both in subject matters and in spirit."

This year marks the 120th anniversary of the birth of Lao She. Leading theater companies across the country are paying tribute to the Chinese literary giant.