Play explores lives of China's child pioneers

Xin Yuan, or Wish, premiered at the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing on Oct 12.

Adapted from Ye Daying's movie of the same name, the stage performance was coproduced by the Beijing Opera and Arts College and the Jingju Theater Company of Beijing, and tells the story of Chinese Young Pioneers — a national organization for children aged between 6 and 14, who wear red scarves as a sign of membership. It seeks to encourage young people to carry on the revolutionary spirit, and marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

The production features award-winning actor Guo Wei, Zhou Enxu, and a number of young students from the Beijing Opera and Arts College. Set against the backdrop of Beijing over 60 years ago, it follows the story of a group of children as they become members of the Chinese Young Pioneers and includes portrayals of Beijing's hutong, courtyards and landmarks, such as Beihai Park.