Musical highlights famous poet's incredible transformation

The Chinese musical Su Dongpo, which premiered in 2024 and toured nationwide, was staged at the Tianqiao Performing Arts Center in Beijing from June 6 to 8. The story centers on the life of Chinese poet Su Shi, also known as Su Dongpo, of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), one of China's most recognized cultural icons.

Produced by China Oriental Performing Arts Group, the musical tells about the poet's four years spent in Huangzhou, now Huanggang, in Hubei province, when Huangzhou was impoverished. Su and his family endured a harsh existence there, making a living by farming. Despite his challenging circumstances, Su's love for literature and artistic creation remained unwavering. His optimism was evident in his poems, vividly depicting his experiences.