Taipei: A Peking opera co-produced by Taiwanese and French troupes is set to premiere in Taiwan in August, as announced by the producers during a press event in Paris on Tuesday. The production, titled “The Princess and Her Magic Fan,” is a collaboration between Taiwan’s GuoGuang Opera Company and France’s Th© Nouvelle G©n©ration and Th© Silvia Monfort, reimagining the Chinese classic “Journey to the West” through the eyes of Princess Iron Fan.

According to Focus Taiwan, the opera presents an intriguing narrative that follows the encounter between the powerful Princess Iron Fan and a troubled French girl seeking solace in literature. This unique partnership sees them unite to overcome challenges and pursue a common goal. The story aims to highlight the theme of overcoming personal crises and finding unity.

Th© Nouvelle G©n©ration Director Joris Mathieu emphasized that the French girl character symbolizes overcoming adversity and resolving crises. He shared insights from his five visits to Taiwan, noting the country’s balance between technological advancement and a deep appreciation for traditional arts. Mathieu remarked on Taiwan’s atmosphere of freedom and its robust democratic values.

GuoGuang Opera Company CEO Chang Yu-hua explained that the production emphasizes a female perspective, with the “magic fan” of Princess Iron Fan symbolizing technology’s dual capacity to both create and destroy. This modern twist incorporates traditional Chinese opera elements with holographic theater’s visual aesthetics, blending Chinese opera music with Western musical influences.

The opera is slated for six performances at Taipei’s Taiwan Traditional Theatre Center from August 1-3. After its Taiwan run, the production will move to France for four performances at the Th© Nouvelle G©n©ration in Lyon, followed by three shows at the Th© Silvia Monfort in Paris in October.