On October 4th in Beijing, I had the pleasure of interviewing the cast and creators behind the captivating play “A Solo Long March.” This production, part of the Gan Nan Tea-Picking Opera, was performed at the Tianqiao Art Center on October 2nd and 3rd.
Written by playwright Sheng Heyu and directed by the acclaimed Zhang Manjun, the play offers a poignant narrative set during the Long March of the Red Army. It centers around a young muleteer named “Mule,” who works for the Central Bank in the Soviet area of Gan Nan. In a tragic turn of events, Mule loses his beloved black mule during the Xiang River Battle, which leads to the discovery of a cache of gold. Tempted by fortune, Mule chooses to remain steadfast in his principles. With the Red Army soldiers’ protection, he embarks on a treacherous journey to reunite with the army, all while safeguarding the gold. This story beautifully captures his personal growth and commitment to ideals, illustrating the spirit of a “grassroots” character representative of the Hakka people in Gan Nan.
“A Solo Long March” stands out with its artistic innovations. The play creatively employs shadow puppetry to bring the black mule and a red stallion to life, masterfully blending human performances with puppetry. The stage is vibrant with dynamic props like moons, stars, and trees that add depth to the storytelling. A small folk music ensemble plays dual roles as musicians and background vocalists, engaging the audience and enhancing the overall experience. The performance retains traditional elements of the Gan Nan Tea-Picking Opera, including short steps and fan dances, while also incorporating symphonic and folk influences that enrich its artistic expression.
I spoke with Yang Jun, the actor who portrays Mule, and who hails from Ruijin in Jiangxi. To authentically embody his character, Yang, along with the creative team, conducted extensive research across Gan Nan, seeking inspiration from individuals who share similar experiences as Mule. His dedication to the role earned him the prestigious 17th Wenhua Performance Award.
Experts in the industry emphasize that the color red is synonymous with Ganzhou, reflecting both the responsibility and the capability to produce compelling red-themed dramas. “A Solo Long March” effectively conveys the strength of faith while resonating with everyday experiences. The director and playwright have focused on engaging the audience, striking a balance between thematic richness and captivating storytelling, continuously refining the performance through practice.
The Gan Nan Artistic Creation Research Institute, which oversees the preservation of the national intangible cultural heritage of Gan Nan Tea-Picking Opera, has earned recognition as a leading regional theater troupe since 2013. Over the years, they have produced a series of exceptional works, including “Mountain Song Feelings,” “Happy Model Soldier,” “Eight Sons Enlist,” and “Forever the Ballad,” and have received national arts funding on multiple occasions.
