A classic returns in tribute

Ren, who served as the president of the Beijing People's Art Theatre, was deeply involved in the creation of this iconic work. He once said that he hoped to adapt the work into a Chinese play, a dream that he had for over three decades. Ren learned about the play when he entered the Central Academy of Drama as a student majoring in directing in 1982.

"Even though Ren has left us, his legacy endures," says Cong Lin, the restaging director who worked alongside Ren on numerous productions, including the original Returning Home on a Snowy Night. "When we bring the play back to the stage, we stay true to Ren's vision. He was dedicated to faithfully bringing the original characters to life."

Cong recalls Ren's passion for the play, a connection formed during his student days at the Central Academy of Drama. Ren often spoke of his admiration for Wu's ability to craft complex characters — bureaucrats, Peking Opera actors, concubines, and even the smallest roles — all richly layered and full of life.

"We are striving to present those vivid, multifaceted characters again," Cong continues. "Ren always described the characters in the play as solid and accurate — an embodiment of his deep commitment to staying true to both the author's intentions and the essence of the play."