"The Soul of Shaolin," a new Chinese martial arts spectacle, will be staged on New York's Broadway next year, the first time a production from China has appeared on Broadway.

"The Soul of Shaolin" marks also the inaugural production of China on Broadway, which is a historic partnership between Nederlander Worldwide Productions and the Eastern Shanghai Cultural Film and Television Group, according to a press release obtained by Xinhua on Friday.

China on Broadway's American and Chinese partners will work together to develop and produce theatrical projects for global audiences, says the press release. "China on Broadway will bring an annual theatrical event featuring leading Chinese artists to Broadway in celebration of the Lunar New Year."

Direct from appearances in Sydney, Macau, and at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, comes a theatrical event that is unparalleled on Broadway, the press release quotes the organizers as saying.

"The Soul of Shaolin" tells the story of a boy named Hui Guang who is separated from his mother by war. Hui is found and protected by the legendary monks of the Shaolin Temple and raised among them. Hui later grows up into an accomplished master of Shaolin Kung Fu and embarks on a spectacular journey of self-discovery.

"The Soul of Shaolin" will feature 33 Chinese nationals who are highly skilled in Shaolin Kung Fu, the breathtaking martial art shown in such films as Fearless (starring Jet Li) and Shaolin Soccer, both recent U.S. box office hits.

Robert Nederlander, Jr. of Nederlander Worldwide Productions said, "We are honored to be able to bring this partnership to Broadway with 'The Soul of Shaolin,' an amazing show that blends the fantastic spectacle of Shaolin Kung Fu with the rich history and tradition of the Chinese people in a new show that has been created by world-class artists from Chinese theater, opera, and ballet."

As scheduled, previews of the show will be on Jan. 13 at Broadway's Marquis Theater, where it will be formally launched on Jan. 15 .

The Eastern Shanghai International Culture Film and Television Co., Ltd. is an entertainment conglomerate with interests in television, film, and live entertainment. The company is supported directly by the Shanghai Mayor's office, with a goal of making Shanghai China's premiere world-class city for musical theater and live entertainment.

(Xinhua News Agency November 8, 2008)