[Photo/China Daily]

Besides the drama and music, the show provides the audience with an overwhelming experience due to the combined effect of the huge stage, large projections and stunning stunts.

In a scene featuring the Red Army fighting to cross an iron cable bridge, a large group of actors cross the stage in midair using real, thick iron cables stretched across.

The show also features special effects achieved using 4-D and holographic technologies. Water and fire are also used.

The performance area at 18,300 square meters is the largest outdoor stage in China. It can be divided into many pieces and can also be brought together to resemble the map of China.

Meanwhile, 2,000 of the 3,000 spectator seats can be moved when needed to give the audience a better viewing experience.

The project involves 330 crew members and 150 professional actors and actresses. It also has 50 local residents.

Yu Yiwei, 23, who plays Mao as a young man in the show, says the work has helped him gain a deeper understanding of both Mao and the country's history.

"For people of my generation, we don't know so much about this part of our history compared with generations before, and I wasn't very sure how to fully present the spirit of Chairman Mao through my performance," says Yu, who then started to read books and watch films to learn more about the leader.

"Now I have developed deep personal affection for Chairman Mao," says Yu. "He had big ambitions when he walked out of his village, and the stories as well as the lines can inspire young people like me."

Contact the writers through liuxiangrui@chinadaily.com.cn