北京首都人們為何如此激情高漲?因為中國經典話劇《雷雨》出新版本啦!

A new version of the classic Chinese play "Thunderstorm" is the cause of great enthusiasm in the Chinese capital. A gritty tale of class division, immorality and incest, Cao Yu's original is widely regarded as a cornerstone in the history of modern Chinese drama.

Eighty years after its publication, "Thunderstorm" remains one of the most popular plays in China. The classic tale of fatalism and retribution, which has been staged many times in China, has been adapted Swedish director Mathias Lafolie.

A new production of classic Chinese play

A new production of classic Chinese play "Thunderstorm" from Swedish director Mathias Lafolie

"Thunderstorm" tells the story of a complex and often steamy relationship between two households — the upper class and wealthy Zhou family, and the lower class and poor Lu family. The story unfolds around wealthy businessman Zhou Puyuan, who is the morally depraved and corrupt patriarch of the Zhou family. He fathers two children with a maid, and then banishes her from the city.

But in this version, Zhou Puyuan is removed from the stage. Lafolie says that the character is much more powerful through his absence.

Thirty years later, the maid's daughter, Sifeng, returns and falls in love with the young master— her own half-brother— Zhou Ping, who is already having an affair with his step-mother Fanyi.

A new production of classic Chinese play

A new production of classic Chinese play "Thunderstorm" from Swedish director Mathias Lafolie

Theatre goers are excited by the new production.

"They brought something new to this classic. I like the costumes, which are very contemporary, and the music is good too," a member of the audience said.

"Thunderstorm" has been staged many times and has a few film adaptations. This latest adaptation will run until June 8 at Beijing's Drum Tower West Theatre.

A new production of classic Chinese play

Cao Yu's play "Thunderstorm" is a gritty tale of class division, immorality and incest.