“The Shawshank Redemption” Chinese Version Premieres in Shanghai
The Chinese version of the classic 40-year-old drama “The Shawshank Redemption” made its premiere at the Shanghai Cultural Plaza on January 18. The joint production of Longma Society and Chinese Dream successfully brought the all-foreign cast and all-Chinese dialogue version of the play to the stage, receiving a warm and enthusiastic response from the audience.
The play, directed by Zhang Guoli, features a cast of 11 foreign actors from 8 countries, including Dashan, who has spent 35 years bridging cultural exchanges between China and the West. The adaptation of the world-renowned drama into Chinese was met with resounding applause and praise from the audience.
The Chinese version of “The Shawshank Redemption” is a representation of a classic journey spanning 40 years, starting from the release of the original short story by Stephen King in 1982 to the iconic movie adaptation that premiered in 1994. The play returns to the text, presenting the original novel in a new artistic form that resonates with audiences.
Breaking new ground, the Chinese version of the play uses an all-foreign cast and features all Chinese dialogues, crossing cultural and language barriers to create a truly unique and powerful artistic co-creation. Tim Robbins, who played the lead character Andy in the movie, conveyed his encouragement for the Chinese adaptation, expressing his hope for the story to reach more audiences.
The play is not only a demonstration of cultural confidence but also a testament to the power of hope, friendship, and unity. Its emphasis on the themes of hope and freedom, friendship, and camaraderie is reflected in the dedication and craftsmanship of the entire production team. The meticulous attention to detail shines through in the onstage performance, capturing the essence of the original story for a Chinese audience.
The visual and auditory effects in the stage production are a key highlight, with lighting, music, and stage design enhancing the storytelling and emotional resonance of the play. The immersive experience transports the audience to Shawshank Prison, evoking a range of emotions and capturing the essence of the “Shawshank Spirit.”
Following its premiere in Shanghai, the Chinese version of “The Shawshank Redemption” will continue to be performed at the Shanghai Cultural Plaza from January 19th to 21st and will meet the Beijing audience from January 25th to 28th. This adaptation brings the timeless message of hope and redemption to a new audience, leaving a lasting impact and inspiring positive energy.