Intrigues in the Qing Imperial Court

Chinese Theatre Circle

A Chinese Opera in English

INTRIGUES IN THE QING IMPERIAL COURT

This opera, written by Leslie Wong, resident playwright of Chinese Theatre Circle (CTC), is the first Chinese Opera sung in English in the world. It was premiered in the "Festival of World Cultures" on 26 August 2005 in www.festivalofworldcultures.com Dun Laoghaire, Ireland.

Interview by TV3 Ireland, 26 Aug 2005
President S R Nathan with Mrs Joanna Wong, 6 Jul 2005

The opera tells the tragic tale of romance between Emperor Guang Xu (AD 1871 - 1908) and his concubine Zhen Fei and their futile efforts in implementing the Reform Movement which lasted only 100 days in the modern history of China (PRC).

Prior to its departure to Ireland, CTC presented a preview of this opera on 6 July 2005 at the Victoria Theatre, Singapore. His Excellency Mr S R Nathan, President of the Republic of Singapore, and the First Lady, were the Guests-of-Honour.

President S R Nathan with artists, 6 Jul 2005

After its return from Ireland, CTC presented this opera at the Singapore Botanic Gardens on 4 September 2005.

Performance at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, 4 Sep 2005