| The Kingdom Of Desire | Contemporary Legend Theatre of Taiwan |
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It has been called “…profound, magnificent and totally amazing” and “visually stunning.” Now in an Australian theatre first, BRISBANE FESTIVAL 2008 will exclusively present the astonishing theatrical adventure that is THE KINGDOM OF DESIRE by the internationally acclaimed Contemporary Legend Theatre of Taiwan.
With a cast of 22 actors and 15 musicians from Taiwan, this extraordinary theatre production is based on Shakespeare’s Macbeth and incorporates elements of traditional Chinese opera with intricate dance and thrilling acrobatic fighting. Directed by Wu Hsing-kuo who also performs the leading role alongside Wei Haimin, THE KINGDOM OF DESIRE is full of dramatic tension, with the actors’ profound vocal and physical skills aptly attuned to this extraordinary drama.
The story is set in China’s Warring States Period over 2000 years ago, at the peak of feudalism, and the nation of Chi is prey to the greed and ambition of Earl Wei-Lei. East City Defender, Au-Shu, and his deputy, Meng, are called to put down Earl Wei-Lei’s rebellion. On the way home from their triumphant expedition, they encounter the Mountain Spirit, who reveals their victorious and tragic futures.
With elaborate costumes and spectacular stage design, THE KINGDOM OF DESIRE, features the phenomenal WU Hsing Kuo, who appeared alongside Plácido Domingo in Tan Dun’s breathtaking opera The First Emperor at New York’s Metropolitan Opera House in 2007, as well as WEI Hai-Min, the star of The Contemporary Legend Theatre’s acclaimed Peking opera version of Farewell my Concubine which featured at New York’s Lincoln Center Festival 2007.
A classic of Contemporary Legend Theatre of Taiwan’s repertoire, international critics and audiences have acclaimed this mesmerising adaptation of Macbeth.
“This is exciting theatre. Such a well conceived innovation that combines the dazzle of Peking Opera with the strengths of Western realism.” The Guardian, UK
Contemporary Legend Theatre of Taiwan
THE KINGDOM OF DESIRE
Part of the 2008 Brisbane Festival 2008.
Venue: Playhouse
Dates/Time:
Wed, 23 July (7.30pm)
Thu, 24 July (7.30pm)
Fri, 25 July (7.30pm)
Sat, 26 July (7.30pm)
Duration: 160 minutes (with interval)
Tickets: A Reserve $60, B Reserve $50, Groups $45, Schools $20
Bookings: Qtix on 136 246 or www.qtix.com.au | Booking fees apply
Visit: www.brisbanefestival.com.au
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