The Orphan of Zhao

Synopsis

In the aftermath of a violent coup, an epic story of self-sacrifice and revenge plays out as a young orphan discovers the shattering truth behind his childhood. Sometimes referred to as the Chinese Hamlet, and tracing its origins to the 4th century BC, The Orphan of Zhao was the first Chinese play to be translated in the West, and was adapted by Voltaire.

Our Review:

9 November 2012

It is extremely rare I find myself so immersed in a play I consciously have to step out of it and back into the real world again afterwards. It pleases me to say The Orphan of Zhao, amidst all the casting controversy, emerges as an outstanding production from the opening note to the final word.

Zhao presents Gregory Doran with his first directorial piece since formally taking the reins as RSC artistic director; he has characteristically crafted the cast into a solid unit - all clearly totally committed to the text and the production as a whole. James Fenton's adaptation is forged from many Chinese sources, creating a tightly crafted narrative which leaves us hungry for more. The authenticity of the language never once falters, which allows us to be thoroughly taken in by the play’s world.

The book is peppered with plenty of unexpected comic moments; thankfully the production is confident enough to resist falling into the easy trap ...

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Latest User Review

Lynette - 29 December 2012:

Totally brill. All of the above review and comments on the button. Thank goodness for Greg Doran and his impeccable touch. Long may he reign and long may we see such talent in all areas at Stratford. ...

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