Presented by the Beijing Xian Dai Ren Culture & Communication Company and Zhengshou Song and Dance Theatre, Wind of Shaolin blends China’s cultural treasure, martial arts with dance in a manner which is, to borrow the words from lyricist, Carl Douglas, fast as lightning and fought with (generally) expert timing. It is the strong spiritual undercurrent which distinguishes this large-scale oriental tale of two star crossed lovers who search for their inner Zen in the pursuit of peace and justice. Commanding performances are given by Wang Peng (as Tian Yuan), Wang Yang (as One-eye Ghost) and Zhang Si Rui (as Su Shui), supported by an energetic cast of 60 plus performers. Young Xia Xiao Pei (as Ziaoshami) displays a natural ownership of the stage with his heel to head flips, humour and cheeky facial expressions as he stirs the elders around him.
The clichéd sound of the pre-recorded music is offset by the furious pace, rhythm and excitement generated from the Kung Fu and Shaolin Kung Fu infused choreography soaring from and across the stage. The costumes for each scene are abundantly colourful, and make it easy to reference good and evil. Visually, the lighting and the use of props for the battle scenes is particularly effective enhanced by the many grand backdrops erected for and during the show's four scenes.
This is an engrossing and dramatic showcase delivered by China’s youngest theatre company.
Beijing Xian Dai Ren Culture & Communication Co. presents
WIND OF SHAOLIN
The Zhengzhou Song and Dance Theatre
Venue: the Arts Centre, State Theatre | St. Kilda Road, Melbourne
Dates: Thursday 5 February to Sunday 15 February
Times: Tuesday to Saturday at 7.30pm, Saturday & Sunday Matinee at 2pm
Tickets: A Reserve $89.90, B Reserve $69.90, Students and Concessions $55
Groups of 8 or more $74.90 (A Reserve seats). Transaction fees may apply
Bookings: Ticketmaster 1300 136 166 or www.ticketmaster.com.au
Visit: www.windofshaolin.com.au
