On October 22, a reporter from China News Service met with the cast of the National Center for the Performing Arts’ production of the classic comedy “Two Gentlemen of Verona,” which is set to hit the stage again after its debut in late May of this year. Various media outlets were granted access to the rehearsal hall, where the cast is currently immersed in intense preparations.
“Two Gentlemen of Verona” marks the first time that the National Center for the Performing Arts has brought the work of Italian playwright Carlo Goldoni to life on stage. The production is directed by renowned director Wang Jiannan, working alongside the theater’s talented ensemble cast.
In comparing this new run to the first, Wang Jiannan shared insights about the adjustments and highlights. “For this revival, we’ve made some changes in character roles and have incorporated valuable feedback from the audience after the initial performances, making the play feel even more fluid and cohesive,” he explained. He emphasized that during this rehearsal period, the actors have been introspective, exploring their characters’ connections to themselves and aiming to deliver an enhanced viewing experience.
The enthusiastic servant Tufatino, who juggles two jobs and constantly finds himself in comical mishaps, is once again played by Dong Wenliang. His portrayal captures the charm and cleverness of the character, effortlessly navigating both the trials of the workplace and the ups and downs of romance.
Returning cast members Yang Qi, Guo Shuo Jie, Xu Zi Xuan, Zhang Xue Wen, Wang Yi Qing, Yao Yu, and Ma Qing Long reprise their roles as the confident Beatrice, the love-stricken Florindo, the complicated couple Clarice and Silvio, the passionate maid Malatina, the articulate law scholar Lombardi, and the clever yet kind innkeeper Brighella. They aim to showcase a deeper understanding of their characters in this upcoming run. Actor Qu Ning steps into the role of the wealthy businessman Bandaroni, and audiences are eager to see how he will inject fresh vitality into this character.
The performances of “Two Gentlemen of Verona” will take place from October 29 to November 3 at the National Center for the Performing Arts.
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