September 8, 1995 is a day when Eileen Chang, one of China's best writers of the 20th century, passed away in her apartment in California in the United States. A decade later, Chang's life and talent are about to be shared with a new audience, debuting on the Shanghai Majestic Theatre stage on Sept. 8. The work has been brewing for many years, with the play's script undergoing as many as seven major changes. Three times, the drama has missed being produced for various reasons, but now will finally see the curtain rise at the Shanghai Majestic Theatre.
Shi Jun, who directed another work by Chang last year, said that as luck would have it, the drama will be staged on a special day this year, the 10th anniversary of the author's death. Shi noted the work has undergone a lot of previous mishaps, and a number of renowned performing artists in Beijing and Shanghai have been gathered to take part in the performance. Shi also noted that the play has finally settled his personal Eileen Chang Complex -- a 10-year long obsession.
The movies and stage works adopted form Chang's novels have abounded in the past two years, such as Ban Sheng Yuan (Eighteen Springs), and Jin Suo Ji (Record of a Golden Lock). Yet it is the first time for a stage work to reflect the vicissitudes of Chang's life in a biographical manner.
With a prose-like approach, the drama explores the loves and life experiences of Chang, as well as some of her literary works during interludes. The final play script begins with the Chang's death.
"At the very moment of dying, Chang sees her parents' brawls, and thinks about her early escapes. The beginning of story is a good way to memorialize Chang, yet not a sad way," noted Shi.
The story ends with the death of Chang's second husband, when the author began a life of seclusion. To revive a distant and nostalgic feeling, all the costumes in the play represent the old-Shanghai style.
The lead actress in the role of Eileen Chang is Shi Chunling from the National Theater Company of China. Shi noted that many stars from Hong Kong and Taiwan expressed interest in the role, but he finally chose Shi, who is not that familiar to Shanghai audiences. His decision came after he watched a drama featuring Shi's in Beijing. Born with a poised temperament, Shi expressed that she has always loved Chang's novels, but never even dreamed of performing as the female writer.
"Chang is a person who lives in her own stories. Once she became enamored, she would do whatever it takes -- even it means seeking her doom," the actress said.
Tong Ruixin, who has become known for his TV series performances, plays the part of Hu Lancheng. After Tong took the role, he was as excited as perturbed. "Hu is a very complex figure. He was an erudite historian, a wanton lover, and also a traitor. It is hard to grasp such a figure," Tong said. The producers have also invited some seasoned performing artists like Xu Haishan and Yan Xiang to take part in the play.
(chinaculture.org September 5, 2005)
