Chinese adaptation of Shawshank wows at Guilin Festival

The Shawshank Redemption, a new Chinese stage adaptation of the 1982 Stephen King novella, is playing at Guilin Festival in Guilin, South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A Chinese stage adaptation of The Shawshank Redemption illuminated the stage at the Guilin Festival held in Guilin, South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, from Oct 26 to Nov 3.

First released as a novella in 1982, the story was immortalized as a cinematic classic in 1994. Now, the Chinese-language stage production offers a fresh take for audiences.

The plot revolves around Andy, a banker incarcerated for the murder of his wife and her lover. With meticulous planning and unwavering composure, he orchestrates his own liberation, ultimately triumphing in his escape to freedom.

The Chinese rendition of the show boasted an all-foreign cast, with 11 actors from 9 nations. The amalgamation of a global cast delivering Chinese dialogue epitomized a transcultural artistic synergy.

Under the guidance of Zhang Guoli, the play debuted earlier this year in Shenzhen before embarking on a tour that included Shanghai, Suzhou in Jiangsu province, and Chengdu in Sichuan province.

"This play is inherently Western, portraying a Western narrative. However, at its core, it encapsulates a universal human saga, delving into profound human emotions. Once we surmount the barriers of language, a profound connection with the audience is inevitable," remarked Canadian actor Mark Rowswell, renowned in China by his Chinese moniker, Da Shan.

Following the performance, Guilin resident Lin Fukun shared his impressions: "Although we are watching foreign actors on stage, the dialogue resonated closely with our Chinese heritage, seamlessly intertwining Chinese idioms. Therefore, we had no difficulty appreciating this story and no doubt feel munch inspired."