Historical drama "Cai Wenji"

"Wenji's Return to China" (Wenji gui Han) is a legend that has been celebrated in ancient classical poetry, paintings, drama and etc. The legend's popularity is a testimony to the ability of the tale to evoke powerful emotions that resonate with universal human feelings-love, sense of belonging, self-identity, and family.

Cai Yan with a courtesy name of Wenji was the daughter of a prominent statesman from the Eastern Han dynasty (25 CE-220 CE). Then a civil rebellion brought Xiongnu (a nomadic tribe which lived north of China) mercenaries into the Chinese capital and Wenji was taken, along with other hostages, into the frontier. During her captivity, as the story goes, she became the wife of the heir apparent, the Zuoxianwang (Wise King of the Left), and had two kids with him. It was not until twelve years later that Cao Cao, a powerful minister, ransomed her in the name of her father, who had already died before her capture. WhenWenji returned to China, she left her children behind in the frontier.

Adapted to stage play Cai Wenji in 1959, drama Cai Wenji completely changed the traditional evaluation of Cao Cao focusing on praising his great passion for talent. The premiere of Cai Wenji was held in Beijing on May 21, 1959 in Beijing and then become one repertoire of the People's Art Theatre.

From the poetic luster and unique personalities of characters represented by the coherent, harmonious and integral play, the magnificent stage as well as the exquisite costumes, we can see the innovation of the director, that is, glorious artistic elements from traditional opera are used to create a drama with national characteristics.