The power of one

The 2nd International Monodrama Festival showcases powerful solo performances from around the world, highlighting the emotional depth and cultural exchange fostered through monodrama.

Three women from ancient and modern Greece embark on a "journey "together on a train: Medea, the tragic figure from ancient Greek drama, Maria Callas, the internationally renowned opera diva, and Melina Mercouri, the beloved Greek actress, singer, and politician. Despite their different life paths, they are united by a common trait: passion — for life, for love, for creativity, and for freedom.

This is the story told in the Greek play Women of Passion, Women of Greece. What makes it particularly unique is that all three women are portrayed by a single actress.

Through changing headdresses and modifying her voice and body language, the actress vividly brings each character's distinct traits to life. In other words, it is a one-person show, or monodrama.

From Sept 5 to Oct 13, the 2nd International Monodrama Festival is held in Beijing. Organized by the Drumtower West Theater, this year's event features 13 shows from the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Denmark, Greece, and other countries and regions, as well as nine original short plays by young theater practitioners for competition.

The festival also includes workshops, expert conversations, immersive shows, and an award ceremony, making it a grand event for enjoying, promoting, and exploring this unique art form.

Li Yangduo, founder of the festival and the Drumtower West Theater, believes in the profound artistic potential of monodrama. "A monodrama can express an entire world through the power of just one person," she said.

However, she pointed out that this art form does not receive the attention and investment it deserves, as many great playwrights today tend to focus on larger productions.

"When I travel abroad, I ask local theater professionals about the state of monodramas in their countries. The common response is that monodramas exist, but they are not prevalent," she said. "In the face of so many grand productions, I wonder why we don't create something small and beautiful. Monodrama is such a vibrant art form, and I believe it deserves more of my energy."