Impressions under fire

• Source: Global Times
• [08:13 February 01 2010]
• Comments

"Only locals can perfectly blend local culture and sights as reflected in our shows, which is the definition of a good performer for an outdoor gala performance," he said, explaining that recruiting professional performers, even the country's best, would be in conflict with local cultures and people's perspectives and views on the location.

Fan recalled recruiting 270 performers from Wuyi Mountain for Impression, Da Hong Pao, most of them in their 20s and the seven months of training.

"All we need from them is to be as responsible and professional as a real performer. We do not want to change anything else, even their accent, as long as they can deliver their lines clearly."

It is these local performers, who in Wang's words have not been "polluted and polished" by urban culture, that really touch the heart of the audience. She said that during the Impression, Da Hong Pao preview, everyone rose from their seats when performers served them tea, due to their pure and simple expressions.

"It is interesting that foreign audiences can better appreciate this and the performance more than many Chinese," she said, concluding that apart from the local performers, the theme of harmony between humans and nature, also strikes a chord.

"We get nearly full marks from foreign audiences, most of whom come to talk to us about the show afterwards," smiled Wang contently.