The title role of Chen Yi will be played by Sun Xuchun, a veteran Huju singer.

Sun is famous for his portrayal of many characters, but this is the first time he is taking on the role of a national leader.

To prepare for the opera, Sun studied historical documents and other portrayals of Chen in movies and theater productions. He even visited Chen's son Chen Haosu, to learn more about what the former mayor was like.

Contact the writer at zhangkun@chinadaily.com.cn

IF YOU GO

Huju Opera: Chen Yi in Shanghai

· 7:15 pm, Aug 24-26

· Shanghai Grand Theater, 300 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu district, Shanghai

· 021-6386-8686

ZHANG KUN in Shanghai