Explore this reimagining of the myth of Hundun!
The Death of Hundun is a solo performacne currently playing at the Etcetera Theatre as part of the Camden Fringe. The show is inspired by the parable by the ancient Chinese philosopher Zhuangzi. Within this, Hundun (an undivided whole) dies after seven apertures carved onto his body. This story follows a woman who is living with depression who is trying to keep busy to keep herself from surrendering. However, when everything falls apart, what is her future.
The production has a large creative and production team to help bring this story to stage. This includes Rulin Ma as marketing manager/assistant producer, Linger Wen as stage manager, Jiaxin Du as executive producer, Xiaoyu Wang and Qiaoran Li as producers, Baysalt Gui as lighting designer, Ganey Zhang as composer/sound designer, Yixuan Wang as set designer, Lettie Liu as movement director, Yudan Wang as acting coach, Yi Wang as co-director/dramaturg, Roccia Zhang and Wandi Liu as playwrights and Nina Chen as artistic consultant. Wandi Liu also directs but also features within the one-woman production.
The team has worked tremendously hard to bring this piece to life with lots of care and heart. It was felt throughout that each aspect was carefully considered to bring the most real version of the show. The story is told in Chinese which allows it to be its authentic self, with subtitles on the back for non-Chinese speaking people. Throughout the production, the movement, lighting design and set helped to effectively capture the message of the show. I wonder if some of the sound and lighting could be grander to allow for a bigger emotional impact.
Wandi Liu is an intriguing, engaging and impactful actor as she weaves through this play with passion. She is able to deliver both the script and visuals without one feeling overcrowded in comparison. She was an excellent lead.
The Death of Hundun continues to play till the 14th August. Book your tickets here!
Tickets for this production were provided complimentary. Many thanks to the company of The Death of Hundun and we wish you all the best!
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