In this play, Sun Fu-rei used Christopher Marlowe's The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus as a cross-cultural prototype, also referring to the plot from Goethe's Faust. He transformed the original works』 ultimate goal of seeking to replace God with human knowledge to yearning for immortality. Subse...Read more
In this play, Sun Fu-rei used Christopher Marlowe's The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus as a cross-cultural prototype, also referring to the plot from Goethe's Faust. He transformed the original works』 ultimate goal of seeking to replace God with human knowledge to yearning for immortality. Subsequently, he presented the notion that Dao cannot and should not be sought after.
The story is about a certain Dao-questing Mu Rong-chen who sought immortality without success. The god of mercy and demon placed a bet on the octogenarian Mu Rong-chen. They reversed his age to a 24 year-old young man, giving him 24 years to do all that he desires. Mu Rong-chen was confident that his determination to quest for immortality would not be swayed. Unexpectedly, the evil demon placed his supernatural power at Mu Rong-chen's service, helping him gain power and love.Tempted, Mu Rong-chen's soul and desire step closer and closer to the abyss of insanity.
The young and talented director, Liu Jian-guo, leaves ample room for the actors to perform. At the same time, he uses multi-media and other stage special effects to create a whimsical and changeable atmosphere. The two leading sheng (male characters) again surpassed themselves in acting. Sun Shi-pei plays Mu Rong-chen who evolves from a wise old man, a desire-less Dao requester, and a passionate young man to a despot who goes crazy because of unquenchable desire. Sun Shi-yong plays angel and demon at the same time, a challenging task to alternate between two extreme characters in a very short span of time.
Category | Xiqu(Traditional Opera) |
Type | Taiwanese Opera |
Chinese Title | 狂魂 |
Group | Yi-Shin Taiwanese Opera Troupe |
Creative staff | Yi-Shin Taiwanese Opera Troupe |
Subtitle | Mandarin Chinese |
Premiere | 2011-12-17 |
Venue | The Metropolitan Hall, Taipei |
Duration | 150min |
Image Source | |
Other Works | The Ghost Consort Prince Duan Xiu |