French director David Bobée reimagined Moliére's 360-year-old classic Dom Juan at the Aranya Theater Festival in the Chinese mainland, weaving contemporary staging that invites audiences into the heart of the libertine’s tale.
"This festival is more than a showcase," Bobée reflects. "It’s a platform for global theatrical dialogue and cultural collision." Drawing on his passion for immersive theater, he fused digital design, dynamic lighting, and interactive set pieces to break down the barrier between performer and audience.
At Aranya, Bobée brought together artists from different backgrounds, blending Western storytelling with local artistic traditions. Scenes shift seamlessly between classic dialogue and modern movement, offering fresh perspectives on seduction, rebellion, and moral reckoning.
By reshaping the play’s structure and layering in contemporary visuals, Bobée bridges centuries of theatrical history. "Dom Juan’s spirit still resonates," he says. "Our goal was to spark conversations across cultures, reminding viewers how classic stories can reflect today’s world."
The production continues at the Aranya Theater Festival, inviting theater enthusiasts, global citizens, and digital nomads to experience a dynamic reinterpretation of one of Western drama’s enduring works.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
