Integrity in Action: Two Plays Explore the Life of Qing Dynasty Official Ding Baozhenin Chengdu
Chengdu, China – The spirit of Qing Dynasty official DingBaozhen, known for his integrity and dedication to public service, will be brought to life in Chengdu this November through two theatrical productions: the Sichuan Opera Ding Baozhenand the drama For the People.
The two plays, which premiered at the Chengdu High-tech Zhongyan Grand Theatre on November 6th,are a testament to the city’s commitment to promoting ethical leadership and cultural heritage. The event, titled Learning from History, Speaking of Integrity: Ding Baozhen Theme Play Performance Launch Ceremony, was organized by the Chengdu Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television and Tourism and the Chengdu Federation of Literary and Art Circles.
A Multifaceted Portrait of a Principled Official
For the People focuses on Ding Baozhen’s time as a magistrate in Chengdu,offering a nuanced portrayal of his inner world while remaining historically accurate. Director Li Bonan explained, This is a figure of great relevance to our times, embodying both timeliness and people-centered values. The call of the era has given rise to our thematic works.
The play seamlessly integrates Sichuan’s local culturalelements, showcasing the expressive power of drama while also highlighting the down-to-earth nature of Tianfu culture. Through a contemporary lens, it explores Ding Baozhen’s incorruptible image and the spirit of the times, aiming to immerse audiences in the allure and influence of ethical culture.
SichuanOpera Embraces Innovation
Meanwhile, the Sichuan Opera Ding Baozhen, directed by An Fenying and written by Liao Shixiang, utilizes a blend of overt and covert storylines to vividly depict Ding Baozhen’s unwavering commitment to integrity amidst the corrupt and unstable political climate of the late Qing Dynasty.
Governingwater starts with governing officials, and governing officials is for governing water, revealed Wang Yuren, a young Sichuan Opera actor. The play primarily focuses on Ding Baozhen’s handling of the dual challenges of ‘water hazards’ and ‘human hazards.’ How to demonstrate integrity and fight corruption while managing water, and how tograsp the dramatic relationship between water management and officialdom, are issues we, as actors, take very seriously.
To achieve this, the play ingeniously employs eight male actors to embody a fusion of water and officials. This presentation is romantic and evocative, Wang Yuren explained. Our operaemphasizes ‘shifting steps without changing form.’ These innovations demonstrate the legendary and unconventional nature of our Sichuan Opera art.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Ding Baozhen is a significant subject, said the creative team. Today, these two plays, Sichuan Opera and drama, have made a resounding impact. We hope thatthis figure, with his contemporary value, real-world significance, and intellectual power, can bring continuous spiritual strength to the audiences of Chengdu.
Ding Baozhen and For the People are scheduled to be staged at the Jinsha Performing Arts Center on November 15th and November 20th/21st, respectively. These productions promise to offer a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of integrity, leadership, and cultural heritage, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
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