British director gives 'The Tempest' a new look

"Many of the musical instruments are unusual, exotic or played in nontraditional ways.

"For example, the traditional gong is rubbed with different materials rather than struck as you would normally expect.

"These sounds capture our imagination and take us far away," says Ganberg.

The creative team also brings together Chinese artists, including set designer Liu Xinglin, costume designer Zhao Tong and choreographer Wang Yabin.

Chinese actor Pu Cunxin plays the lead role of Prospero.

In 2017, Pu has played the title role in NCPA's play King Lear.

Speaking about his role, Pu, 65, who is also the chairman of the China Theater Association and vice-president of the Beijing People's Art Theater, says "Shakespeare may have died more than 400 years ago but his works and characters are still living on today around the globe.

We prepared for nearly a year for this production. It was not easy because we put our past acting experience aside and started over again as new actors under the guidance of (Tim) Supple."

Chinese actress Li Xiaomeng plays Miranda, and actors from the NCPA Drama Ensemble comprise the rest of the cast.

If you go

7:30 pm, August 9 to 15. NCPA, No. 2 West Chang'an Avenue, Xicheng district, Beijing. 010 6655 0000