The Peony Pavilion

Editorial

When: 15-18 March, 2012
Where: State Theatre, Arts Centre
Tickets: $79-$159. Bookings online or 1300 182 183

A Ming Dynasty opera, The Peony Pavilion is a love story set against the colossal backdrop of an historical government coup. In its original form, it tends to proceed for no fewer than twenty hours! Fortunately, the National Ballet of China has condensed the tale a bit.

But, by all accounts, even if these acclaimed and terrifically costumed dancers did exceed the twenty-hour timeframe, no one would mind a bit. This is said to be a work of such visual brilliance that even the low, rich autumn moon will look a little sad by comparison!

Expect a fusion of western and Chinese dance.

Helen Razer, Citysearch