Xiqu

Set against the story on the only female emperor in the history of China, Wu Zetian, this opera attempts to interpret from a woman’s perspective how Wu, driven by her unwillingness to submit to fate, strives to rise up to power with her wits and ruses. Renowned Cantonese Opera actress Wan Fai-yin will take up both the direction and leading role to reconstruct this controversial historical figure onstage, to explore how Wu rises to power in a changing male society and to reveal her mentality in struggling to survive in the intrigue-filled royal harem. It will be an exceptional performance in Wan’s artistic career that promises to amaze the audience.

Famous actress Wan Fai-yin, Yuen Siu-fai, Tang Mi-ling, together with Lam Tin-yau, Johnson Yuen, Cheng Nga-kei, Wan Yuk-yu and Song Hongbo will join hands to present a remarkable performance with ingeniously designed modern stage setting.

The story starts with Wu’s being consigned to Ganye Temple and ends at her abdication to Li Xian with highlights on the parts “Chosen as concubine”, “Removing her son to seize power”, “Adopting advices” and “Rise to sovereignty” to portray Wu’s legendary life.