The breathtaking scenery of the Lijiang River, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, is not only picture perfect for postcards and paintings, but will serve as the backdrop for a new play called Sister Liu. Director Zhang Yimou is at the helm of the production.

Mountains, a river and the cool night air -- these aren't special effects, they're the actual costars of Sister Liu. The play takes place on the Lijiang River, one of the most beautiful areas in the world.

Producer Mei Shuaiyuan said, "The performances and effects in the show are much better than we expected, especially for some fabulous pictures that have never been presented. As the producer, I am quite satisfied with this kind of artistic harmony between human beings and nature."

Sister Liu tells the story of a brave woman fighting for happiness and freedom. But the natural scenery is equally important. Songs and local dancing styles are also thrown into the mix, creating a theatrical experience like no other. Rehearsals are well underway, and "Sister Liu" starts on March the 20th.

(CCTV.com March 19, 2004)