On Aug 26, the drama "Confucius", produced by the Shandong Provincial Drama Theater, is staged at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Grand Theatre. [Photo/CAEG]

The drama "Confucius" was staged on Aug 26 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Grand Theatre as part of the National Style and Aroma Floating in the Fragrant River performance season. It was produced by the Shandong Provincial Drama Theater.

The drama combines music, dance, poetry, painting, opera, sculpture, and other artistic elements. Set against the background of the warring states period at the end of the Spring and Autumn era, it vividly portrays Confucius as an ancient thinker, politician, and educator who remains steadfast in his ideals despite enduring hardships.  

That night, the actors showcased Confucius' pursuit of the ideal of "the common good for all people" and his spirit of "doing what is right even when it seems impossible," through their exceptional performances. The stage effects were refreshing and beautiful, earning applause from the audience.

"This play took three years to create, and every actor has worked incredibly hard. Whether it's the poetic language or the classical and spirited physical expression, we strived to do our best," said Wang Xiang, one of the actors playing 'Confucius' and the deputy director of the Shandong Provincial Drama Theater. This is the first overseas performance of the play, marking a solid step toward  promoting Confucian culture to the world.

"The live performance was incredibly impactful, providing a comprehensive sensory experience from visual to auditory. It showcased the charm of Eastern classical aesthetics," said Ms. Zhang, a Hong Kong citizen. She said her knowledge of Confucius was limited to books and sculptures, but this play allowed her to better appreciate the greatness of Confucius and the beauty of traditional culture.

This performance was jointly supported by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People's Republic of China, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR, the People's Government of Shandong Province, and the Bauhinia Culture Holdings Ltd.

The organizers of the event stated that Chinese culture has always been the "root" and "soul" of the Chinese people, as well as the profound spiritual foundation for Hong Kong's prosperity and development. The  National Style and Aroma Floating in the Fragrant River  performance season will continue to bring more outstanding mainland Chinese plays to Hong Kong. It aims to be a grand stage for spreading Chinese culture, allowing Hong Kong to shine with even more brilliance.

On Aug 26, the drama "Confucius", produced by the Shandong Provincial Drama Theater, is staged at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Grand Theatre. [Photo/CAEG]