This theatrical and musical production brings the sound, beauty and cultural sophistication of Ancient China to the stage.
The production company UAU, in collaboration with China Arts and Entertainment Group (CAEG), presents “THE IMPERIAL BELLS OF CHINA” at Centro Cultural de Belém (CCB), on the weekend of September 7th and 8th.
This production by the Hubei Provincial Performing Arts Group is inspired by the patriotism of the poet Qu Yuan (340-278 BC), an emblematic figure in Chinese literature and culture, who marked a period of artistic and cultural richness in Ancient China.
The State of Chu, located on the banks of the Yangtze River, is also an inspiration for this spectacle, as it experienced rapid social, political and economic development before the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC), giving rise to a vibrant and unique culture that left structural marks on Chinese history.
“THE IMPERIAL BELLS OF CHINA” brings to the stage references to Ancient China, where in addition to the impressive costumes and props, the eight tones of ancient instruments stand out which, together with artists, sing in unison, recreating the majestic atmosphere of ancient people.
Musical instruments, from bells to drums, are a reproduction of the remarkable archaeological treasure discovered in 1978, in the “underground palace of music”, in Suixian (China). In this large collection of musical artefacts were the Zeng Houyi bells, more than 2,400 years old, which were used at court events. The sounds of these bronze bells reflected the cultural sophistication of the time and are the main sound element of this production that arrived in Portugal.
Through singing, dancing and music, the artists on stage recreate the splendour of one of the world’s oldest cultures, which is intrinsically linked to the poet and statesman of ancient China. Qu Yuan’s devotion and tragic death inspire cultural and artistic traditions to this day, including the Dragon Boat Festival.
The show “THE IMPERIAL BELLS OF CHINA”, which premiered in 1983, is a way to preserve and promote Chinese cultural heritage, of which b is an inseparable part. This production sounds in unison the eight tones of ancient instruments (metal, stone, string, bamboo, gourd, clay, leather and wood), recreating the majestic music and artistic style of the ancient Chu people. This show has already toured 57 countries and regions (including the USA, Canada, Singapore, Luxembourg, Japan, among others) and has had more than 1,000 performances.
The Hubei Provincial Performing Arts Group performs for the first time in Portugal on September 7th and 8th and then heads to Seville, Spain. This show is part of CAEG’s cultural exchange initiatives, which aim to present the Chinese tradition in contemporary performing arts to audiences from all countries and continents.
Always confirm with the concert hall or promoter the conditions of access, confirmation of the date or time, ticket place of sale, price, and availability.
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