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What’s On
Two actors in traditional Chinese dress.

Symphony Poetry Drama.

Ein Heldenleben · CAI LUN

LSO St Luke's Guest Artist

LSO St Luke's

Thursday 17 October 2024 • 7.30pm

Book Tickets

Tickets: £30, £24, £15

The Performance

Jerwood Hall, LSO St Luke’s

Ein Heldenleben · CAI LUN
The performance includes a 20 minute interval

Chen Xinyi creator/writer/director
Guan Dongtian
actor
Chen Lincang actor
Raffaello Morales conductor
Fidelio Orchestra

Tickets

£30/£24
+ £1.50 booking fee per online/phone transaction

It is said that paper was invented in 105 AD by a eunuch, Cai Lun. His invention paved the way for centuries of cultural transmission, and his legacy is still felt across the world.

Ein Heldenleben · CAI LUN is not merely a historical recount of this great inventor’s achievement, but a drama woven with Richard Strauss’ symphonic poem, Ein Heldenleben exploring the emotional and moral complexities of Cai Lun’s life. The play weaves together drama, music, and the stylized performances of Peking Opera, reflecting the ancient Chinese concept of “比兴” (analogy and metaphor) to explore both his triumphs and his personal struggles.

This production continues the director Chen Xinyi’s 20-year exploration of stage aesthetics, where drama and music exist in a delicate equilibrium, guiding the audience through both the historical grandeur and personal turmoil of one of China’s most iconic figures.

Presented by Chen Xinyi Art centre. Co-presented with China Shanghai International Arts Festival (CSIAF) / The Great World.

 

            

With a glass of wine in the Crypt Cafe and Bar

The Crypt Bar

Open for hot and cold drinks from one hour before the performance, and during the interval (where applicable).
Card payments only.

Your Visit and Access