Chinese version of 'Les Misérables' to premiere in Beijing in January

The beginning of this Mandarin production dates back to 2021, involving three years of meticulous work. According to the organizers, all dialogue featured in the play is drawn directly from the novel, and the entire musical composition will be composed by the French team.

Director Bellorini, a veteran in blending theatrical performances with musical elements in art expression, has designed numerous musical segments and live performances for this drama. He has tailored distinctive music themes for each major character of the play.

"Music has the power to resonate with people deeply," said Bellorini. "It's a universal language, transcending barriers, connecting people's hearts and conveying emotions to the audience, so that it will help convey the essence of Hugo's book. I hope the audience will carry melodies of this play in mind after watching it."

In this adaption of Les Misérables, performers will not only play their roles but also step out of their characters to recite excerpts from the novel on stage. This Brecht's technique, known as the "alienation effect", challenges the performers while bringing a thought-provoking experience to the audience.

Liu Ye, producer and the lead actor of the play, said: "What impressed me most is the director's infusion of strong French theatrical styles in the play. Les Misérables is a story we are very familiar with. It's been adapted into musicals, plays and films. However, the injection of French theatrical elements offers Chinese actors a unique performing experience."

Following its premiere, the play will embark on a nationwide tour spanning six months and covering 15 cities, including Suzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, Nanjing, Hangzhou, Wuhan, Chengdu and Shenzhen.

Contact the writer at li-ping@chinadaily.com.cn