While gazing at the mortal world from the heavens, the Seventh Fairy, daughter of the Emperor of Heaven, is moved by the hardships endured by Dong Yong, a dutiful son who is trying to bury his father. Tired of the grim life at the palace, feeling compassion for the young man, the celestial maiden descends to Earth and, without permission, marries Dong Yong under a pagoda tree. One hundred days after the marriage, the Emperor hears about the romance and orders her immediate return. Reluctantly, the lovers must say goodbye...
The legend of Dong Yong and the Seventh Fairy has been widely popular in China over thousands of years. This extensively readapted immortal love story has inspired numerous operas, films and television dramas such as the well-known Huangmei Opera A Goddess’ Marriage.
Constantly looking to innovate, the locally based Zhen Hua Sing Cantonese Opera Association is staging a new version of Under the Pagoda Tree, featuring the renowned actor Chu Chan Wa with a number of local actors. Combining exquisite performance and modern stage technologies, this show embodies the ongoing reinvention of cultural heritage and stage arts.
Executive Producer and Director: Chu Chan Wa
Playwright: Tang Chi Kin
Percussion Design and Leader: Tang Chi Kin
Lighting Design: Lei Pui Mio
Main Cast: Chu Chan Wa and Mok Weng Lam
Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one interval
Performed in Cantonese, with surtitles in Chinese and English
New Cantonese Opera “Under the Pagoda Tree”