A scene from "Wolves and Sheep" by the Pyotr Fomenko Workshop, an experimental drama from Russia.

The Russian experimental theatre company Pyotr Fomenko Workshop will perform the 19th-century Russian farce "Wolves and Sheep," a play combining elements of melancholy, poetry, impressionism and humour, tonight and tomorrow at Beijing's Capital Theatre.

Largely about cheats and scoundrels, the play by Alexander Ostrovsky features several protagonists in two opposing camps. The "wolves," headed by Meropiya and her lawyer, are sly and manipulative types. Meanwhile, the "sheep," led by Meropiya's poor nephew and the rich young widow next door, seem innocent and vulnerable next to bullies such as Meropiya.

Under Fomenko's direction, Ostrovsky's 19th-century farce opens completely new horizons. There are moments of sheer weirdness that could only be Russian.

"Under Fomenko's direction, 'Wolves and Sheep' will live up to theatregoers' high expectations," said Ma Zhenghong, the Chinese director and 1992 graduate of Fomenko and assistant director of "Wolves and Sheep" in 1992.

Fully displaying his unique directing style, "Wolves and Sheep" is one of Fomenko's most acclaimed works, Ma said.

"Fomenko has his own deep tangible ties with the inner world of Ostrovsky's characters actors, merchants, husband-hunting women, success-hunting men, unsatisfied middle-class people too defenceless to be heroes and too weak not to arouse compassion," said Ma.

Good examples

"Wolves and Sheep" is the third play to be staged as part of the Year of Russia in China, which has seen droves of Russian dramatists entertain Chinese theatregoers.

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