Suspense novel set in Tang Dynasty becomes musical

A musical adaptation of Ma Boyong's popular suspense novel, The Longest Day in Chang'an, premiered at the Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center on Feb 14.

After its five performances between Feb 14 and 16, the production is scheduled to tour Shanghai between March 13 and 23.

The story centers on a Lantern Festival day during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) era, and follows Li Bi, chief of the intelligence bureau, and Zhang Xiaojing, a former soldier and now convict, who work together to prevent a plot against the capital, Chang'an.

French singer-songwriter Laurent Ban, known for his performances in Mozart, l'Opera Rock, plays Gelao, head of a local underground society. This is his first participation in a Chinese musical production, singing and performing in Mandarin.