Four remarkable productions will take the stage at the Great Theatre of China in Shanghai. Originating from the theatrical powerhouses of the United Kingdom, France, and Belgium, these performances promise to transcend cultural and artistic boundaries, offering audiences a unique celebration of theatre.

Asian premieres

Charlie & Stan, directed by the acclaimed Paul Hunter, draws inspiration from real events. Performed by the renowned UK physical theatre company, Told by an Idiot, the play delves into the fascinating story of Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel, exploring their near collaboration as a comedy duo. This silent mime production is filled with comic expression and serves as a humorous yet deeply moving homage to two icons who forever transformed the comedy landscape.

In a similar spirit of innovation, the French play Le Souffleur, directed by and starring Paolo Crocco, presents a poignant narrative based on historical events. It tells the story of a prompter who dedicated his life to the theatre but was forgotten by history, having died alone during the 1897 premiere of Cyrano de Bergerac. This production resonates with those who work tirelessly behind the scenes, shedding light on the silent yet indispensable contributions that make theatre possible.

Shanghai premieres

L'Homme et le Pecheur, a French play directed by Ciro Cesarano, uses the character of an absurd fisherman to provoke reflections on modernity. Combining humor and absurdity, it uncovers themes of compromise, solitude, and conformity in contemporary society, challenging audiences to consider whether a true appreciation of life comes only at the loss of everything.

Equally captivating is Du Bout Des Doigts, a critically acclaimed Belgian production directed by Gabriella Iacono and Gregory Grosjean. Combining a miniature theatre with cinematic storytelling, the performance uses fingers as a creative medium to explore a variety of dance styles, including ballet, lindy hop, modern dance, and hip-hop. This production offers a fresh and intriguing perspective on the art of dance.

If you go

Sources: The Great Theatre of China, Huangpu district performing arts and cultural development center