Forbidden Fruit Under The Great Wall

“[It is a] pure spectacle… an epic narrative, a love story in the Romeo and Juliet mould that can be enjoyed on many levels: a heartrending tale that transcends all languages and all demographics… [with] the most elaborate sets and gorgeous costumes”

— Jon Nicholls, co-producer of Australia’s “Tales of the Silk Road”

Upon official invitation from the Australian Government, ninety of China’s top-tier performing artists showcased this theatrical masterpiece in Australia from the 4th-10th Oct, 2007. A total of twenty-four shows took place across Australia as part of this year’s “Experience China” event series, including an extravagant premiere held at Her Majesty’s Theater on October 4th. This exquisite and dynamic performance tour also marked 35 years of diplomatic relations between China and Australia.

Directed by China’s celebrated arts mastermind, Zhang Jigang, this captivating dance drama that was produced on a ten million yuan budget artfully recounts the soul-stirring story of two young servant lovers and the many hardships they experienced during China’s Jin dynasty, the effects of which forced thousands of merchants to leave their hometowns and travel to Xikou just to earn a living. This moving story reflects bittersweet thematic tones similar to that of Romeo and Juliet, and poignantly represents people’s complex relationship with grief and hatred through a collection of artful motifs, including the sour taste of the jujube date.

Brought to life by China’s top-tier theatre performers, this is a high-quality performing arts production that was meticulously refined by Jigang over three long years. Since its initial debut in December 2004, “Forbidden Fruit Under The Great Wall” was performed over 100 times around China before making its way onto stages overseas.