China News Service, Shanghai, January 5 (Reporter Wang Ji) The original Russian musical "Onegin" opened at the Shanghai Cultural Plaza on the evening of the 4th, bringing a modern adaptation of the image of "superfluous people" in literary works, presenting a unique Russian aesthetic. This is also the first time the work has appeared in Shanghai.
Stills from the musical "Onegin". Photographed by Zheng Tianran
The story of the musical "The Devil Onegin" is adapted from Pushkin's long verse novel, which provides a new interpretation of the image of Onegin, the "superfluous man". Onegin was tired of the aristocratic life, came to the countryside, and met the simple and passionate Tatiana; after experiencing many twists and turns, the two met again... The musical allows the audience to see a forgotten Austrian from another perspective. Nirgin, the demon was born from his dark nature and gave him and Tatiana a chance to look back on their lives.
Although the image of the devil does not appear in the original work, the creative team of "The Devil Onegin" found his figure between the lines of the original work and watched him promote the development of the story. "Onegin" has been performed continuously for more than 8 years since its premiere in St. Petersburg. With its gorgeous choreography, moving melody, unique interpretation and Russian temperament, "Onegin" has become a bright spot in the musical garden.
Stills from the musical "Onegin". Photographed by Zheng Tianran
The cast that came to China to perform this time assembled top Russian actors, including the famous Russian musical actor Ivan Ozhokin, who plays the leading actor Onegin in the play. Ivan Ozhokin has starred in the Russian versions of well-known musicals such as "The Phantom of the Opera", "Cats", "The Doctor", "Beauty and the Beast", and the world-renowned Russian musicals "Northeastern Wind" and "The Master and Margo". He also appears in "Litte" and "Karamazov".
In order to bring the most comfortable theater viewing experience to Chinese audiences, the production team of "Onegin" has expanded the display scale and displayed all stage settings in a more orderly manner, including tables, chairs, bridges, snowflakes, garlands and other props in the play. All reflect the cultural characteristics of Russia. For example, at that time, Petersburg did not have electricity, so the theater would place an olive-shaped "shell" on the edge of the stage and put a kerosene lamp inside it. This was also one of the important sets of the play.
Stills from the musical "Onegin". Photographed by Zheng Tianran
It is reported that the original Russian musical "The Devil Onegin" will be performed at the Shanghai Cultural Plaza until January 9, with 8 consecutive performances.
Source: China News Network
