Throughout the process, the Chinese crewmembers have been forced to learn the ropes as they go. “We have to become familiar with each link in the musical production chain, and in the process have developed a greater professionalism in our approach,” says Zhang Yu. He indicated that the significance of purchasing the copyrights lies in that the local team would need to realize all links in the production chain using local talent. Owing to this first attempt, creating, producing and performing original Chinese musicals should be a much easier process in the future. Step by Step
With a steady stream of foreign musicals and troupes being brought to China as inspiration, original Chinese musicals have recently begun to appear in greater numbers.
However, due to their inferiority to imported spectacles in aspects such as use of plot devices and musical scores, these domestic productions are failing to attract theatergoers in large numbers. “China’s musical scene is still in its infancy,” posits Zhang, and agrees with a number of Shanghai musical experts in suggesting the development of domestic musicals is following a three-stage process. First, classic foreign musicals are introduced, and this inspires audiences and writers alike. Second, Chinese versions of these classics are produced and performed under license agreements. In this process, the production chain for musicals is mastered and technical talent is developed. Finally, original Chinese musicals will eventually be brought to the stage and these creations will be promoted both in China and abroad. Certainly with Mamma Mia! China’s musical scene is on its way to bigger things.
By Tang Yuankai
Source: Chinatoday
Print
Save