A Dream of Red Mansions by Tong Ruirui, music by Ye Xiaogang
The National Ballet of China – Beijing Tianqiao Theater
Cast
Feng Ying — Artistic Director
Tong Ruirui — Choreographer
He Tao — Choreographer
Zhang Zhenxin — Choreographer
Zheng Yu — Choreographer
Ye Xiaogang — Composer
Feng Li — Libretto
Liu Xinglin — Stage design
Program notes
Considered as a classic in Chinese literature, A Dream of Red Mansions has never failed to inspire generation upon generation of story lovers since its release in the middle of the 18th century. The author, Cao Xueqin, deals with the complex psychology of the protagonists and paints a wonderful image of all of the traditions and customs of 18th century China. Jia Baoyu, one of the story's central characters, is born into a clan almost entirely composed of females, ruled by his grandmother, whose leadership he is due to inherit. Completely infatuated by his cousin, Lin Daiyu, Jia Baoyu is otherwise betrothed to his childhood friend, Xue Baochai. Illustrating the fall of a dynasty, the work is as much a criticism of society as it is an homage to all the powerful women in Cao Xuequin’s own life. The story is brought to life by the choreographer, Tong Ruirui surrounded by stunning tapestries and spectacular costumes on stage, here at the National Ballet of China!
Photo © National Ballet of China - Sonia Paramo Fondatrice Présidente Films Figures Libres