![Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://beijingtimes.com/culture/2023/12/05/capsule-project-season-2-and-chinese-adaptation-of-skylight-highlight-cultural-dynamism-in-beijing/&media=https://beijingtimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/bff53e3d-e99d-43ae-bba0-e751820cdb09.jpeg&description=Delve into the rich tapestry of Chinese animation and theater with "Capsule Project Season 2," a collection of short animations, and the Chinese adaptation of the British play "Skylight," set to be staged in Beijing.){kind=link}
”
Capsule Project Season 2,” a collection of 13 original short animated episodes, was recently released on the Chinese video platform Bilibili. This anthology is a part of Bilibili’s Seeking Light Project, an initiative designed to support and showcase domestic animation talents. The series delves into the theme of “extreme emotions” and is segmented into four distinct chapters: New Charm of Chinese Style, Mirror Life, Pioneer Sci-Fi, and Life Ode, each offering a unique narrative and aesthetic experience.
One of the notable episodes, “Stealing Peaches,” draws inspiration from a story in the classic collection of supernatural tales, “Liaozhai Zhiyi” or “Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio.” Directed by Wang Jiaguo, this episode reimagines the original tale, introducing new characters such as Mr. Hu, a fox fairy, and explores the dichotomy between illusion and obsession through a blend of positive and negative imagery.
“Dream Mushroom” stands out with its 4:3 aspect ratio and monochromatic visuals, creating an ambiance reminiscent of noir films. The episode’s suspenseful narrative and avant-garde style contribute to its distinctive character. Another episode, “Amy and Mr. Frog,” draws influence from Studio Ghibli’s “My Neighbor Totoro,” weaving a tale of loneliness and self-healing.
“Bathhouse Adventure” captures the nostalgia and memory of a bygone era, focusing on the fading presence of traditional bathhouses. In contrast, “Virus” is a science fiction short with an apocalyptic tone, prompting reflection on the future of science and technology and the essence of life.
“Game Show” narrates the struggle of three individuals in a capsule world, emphasizing the uniqueness and irreplaceability of each person. “Smile,” a sports-themed short, explores themes of family and motivation, with its director, Yuan Yuan, advocating for resilience and optimism in the face of adversity.
“Capsule Project Season 2” continues the excellence established in its first season, offering a fusion of unique Chinese aesthetics, innovative sci-fi concepts, profound human insights, and groundbreaking emotional exploration.
In the realm of theater, the Chinese adaptation of the renowned British play “Skylight” is set to be staged at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) in Beijing. Originally directed by three-time Oscar nominee Stephen Daldry and written by David Hare, “Skylight” premiered at London’s National Theatre in 1995 before receiving accolades on West End and Broadway, including the Olivier Award for Best New Play.
The play, which won the 69th Tony Award for Best Revival of a Play, revolves around the reunion of former lovers – a successful restaurateur and an ordinary math teacher – who, despite shared interests, find themselves at odds due to their differing worldviews.
Produced by the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre and initially directed by French director Claudia Stavisky, the Chinese version premiered at the NCPA in 2019. The revival version, directed by Xie Shuai, has been performed at various prestigious venues, including the Shanghai Poly Grand Theatre and the Shanghai Jasmine Theatre.
Scheduled for four performances from December 14 to 17 at the NCPA, this staging of “Skylight” offers a fresh cultural perspective, blending Chinese theatrical interpretation with the essence of British playwriting.
READ MORE: