2016 marks the 400th anniversary of the deaths of both Chinese playwright Tang Xianzu and his British counterpart, William Shakespeare. To commemorate the two literary giants, Kunqu opera's "Peony Pavilion" written by Tang in the Ming Dynasty, will soon be staged in London. And, one of Shakespeare's masterpieces will also be brought to the stage in China.

2016 marks the 400th anniversary of the deaths of both Chinese playwright Tang Xianzu and his British counterpart, William Shakespeare. To commemorate the two literary giants, Kunqu opera's "Peony Pavilion" written by Tang in the Ming Dynasty, will soon be staged in London.

At the renowned Shakespeare's Globe Theater in London, a press conference was held to announce that the Suzhou Kunqu Opera Theatre of Jiangsu Province will stage the modern version of the Kunqu Opera "Peony Pavilion" at the renowned theater from September 28th to the 30th.

Written by Tang Xianzu in the Ming Dynasty, "The Peony Pavilion" is considered a romantic masterpiece in Chinese opera history. It depicts the love story between Du Liniang and Liu Mengmei, which reflects the pursuit of young men and women for a life of freedom when it comes to love.  

Produced by renowned author Pai Hsien-yung, this version of The Peony Pavilion debuted in Taipei in 2004. Since then, it has been performed more than 290 times in 16 countries, including the United States, and was well-received by the audience. Artists of the Suzhou Kunqu Opera Theatre hope that the show can also resonate with the people of the United Kingdom.

"This story is quite similar to 'Romeo and Juliet'. The difference is that Du Liniang returns to life and Romeo does not. So I think it's easy for the audience here to understand," said Shen Fengying, actress.

"We've been to many cities and universities, the show has been well received by the audience, especially the younger generation," said Yu Jiulin, actor.

Meanwhile, artists from the Shakespeare's Globe Theater will bring Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice" to Nanjing.

"The Merchant of Venice" will be performed at the Nanjing Poly Theater on September 28th.