A fresh Thunderstorm

According to Li, the prologue and epilogue are not merely narrative bookends but are integral parts of the play's poetic and philosophical fabric. The prologue sets the tone for the play's tragic unfolding and the epilogue provides a philosophical resolution to the characters' fates. For Li, these sections help position the play not just as a drama but as a profound reflection on human existence, in line with Cao Yu's original vision.

"We are going back to Cao Yu, back to the essence of the play, and expressing the theatrical concepts and performing philosophies of today's world. We hope that our production will allow audiences to appreciate the literary quality of the performance and see our new approach to theatrical aesthetics," he adds.

In Li's vision, Thunderstorm becomes more than just a historical document — it is a mirror reflecting the darkest recesses of human nature. The director describes the play as a lens through which the audience can explore despair, hope and the complexities of the human spirit.

"In Thunderstorm, we see ourselves. It is a tragedy, but within that tragedy, there is beauty and power. It shows us the painful truth about human nature," Li says.

Li also highlights Chang's contributions to the stage design and costumes, which are described as "aesthetic and poetic". This production is also a team reunion, including Li, Chang and the actors from the well-received Hamlet production in 2019.