Barcelona Musical Debuts in Shanghai, Bringing A century-old Catalan story
The Barcelona contemporary musical "L'alegria que passa" (Happiness Is Fleeting) premieres in Shanghai this weekend. The legendary 50-year-old Spanish theater company Dagoll Dagom's final original production and farewell show is in the Catalan language.
"L'alegria que passa" is adapted from the classic of the same name written at the end of the 19th century by Santiago Rusiñol, a leading figure of the Catalan Modernisme movement.
The story is set in an industrial town called "Gray Town." The arrival of a troupe of touring artists breaks its silence: Joan, the alcalde's son, meets Zaira, a singer in the troupe, and each catches a glimpse in the other of a life they long for but have never had.
Two entirely different worlds collide. In the tug-of-war between desire and reality, dormant dreams are awakened, and the town's seemingly calm surface is stirred.
The nine singing-and-dancing performers often play townspeople and touring artists. Rapid transitions are possible thanks to lighting and costume changes, but it requires physical stamina and focus from the performers.
The music is highly contemporary, blending electronic music with live performance. The choreography is visually striking, incorporating street dance and acrobatic elements.
This is Shanghai Culture Square's first Catalan performance, a language spoken by about 20 million people worldwide.
Due to the age of its founders, Dagoll Dagom will disband, but its performers will join other arts groups to continue Catalan-language works and local culture.
The performance has English and Chinese subtitles.
Performance info
Dates: September 18-20, 2pm/7:30pm
Tickets: 280-780 yuan
Venue: Shanghai Culture Square 上海文化广场
Address: 597 Fuxing Rd M 复兴中路597号
