"Longfu Temple" revive the old, foster the young (2)

"Longfu Temple" is a play unlike a play. Integrating traditional music and crosstalk performances, the play doesn’t have a clear story line or major conflict. The playwright is a new graduate and didn’t write too much story. But these actors really contribute a lot to their characters," director of "Longfu Temple" Lin Zhaohua said.

As leading actor Li Lin says, "Dadao" treats theater like an interesting game, and he never repeats himself. One way he does that is by getting actors into their best state, rather than put them into moulds.

In "Longfu Temple", Li Lin, a previous cross-talk performer, remains on stage from beginning to end, performing all kinds of traditional arts. While sustaining full stamina is a great challenge for him, he says it is really enjoyable.

"I grew up as a Beijing local and have been interested in Beijing’s folk culture since childhood. So I believe I have easier access to the role than my peers that are under 30. I really want my character to show that Beijing’s traditional culture can still be found in young people," actor of "Longfu Temple" Li Lin said.

In recent years, Lin Zhaohua has cooperated with many young artists. He says young people are very passionate for theater, and need more freedom and opportunity.

Reviving the old and cultivating the young could be what Lin Zhaohua’s "Longfu Temple" is all about.