As National Day approaches, director Jia Ding and his creative team are taking center stage with a bold new adaptation of "The Song of Youth" – the classic novel that has resonated with generations on the Chinese mainland. Originally published 60 years ago, the story traces Lin Daojing’s journey from an idealistic student to a revolutionary activist during the 1930s upheavals.
“We asked ourselves, how do we bridge the past and present without losing the heart of the story?” says Jia Ding, who led brainstorming sessions with writers, composers, and choreographers. Their goal: create a musical that feels both authentic and fresh for today’s audiences.
The creative team’s process highlights:
- Modern score meets revolutionary spirit: A fusion of orchestral arrangements and pop-infused melodies to connect with younger viewers.
- Immersive staging: Multimedia projections and interactive set pieces invite the audience into Lin Daojing’s world.
- Community workshops: Over 200 students in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou joined focus groups, with 78% saying themes of self-discovery and activism still resonate.
By weaving data-driven insights with dynamic storytelling, Jia Ding’s musical aims to honor the novel’s legacy while sparking fresh conversations. “Lin Daojing’s bold choices still inspire us,” Jia Ding notes. “It’s about capturing that spirit and making it sing for a new generation.”
The musical premieres this National Day holiday, promising a landmark theatrical experience that bridges history and modernity on one stage.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
