Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui | Zuni Icosahedron - Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre - The Smiling, Proud Wanderer

Description

Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer

Adapted from Jin Yong’s classic

Traditional Art × Innovative Design — Acclaimed Revival of Reimagined Excerpts

Chinese Opera Masters Passing the Torch — Preserving and Innovating Cultural Heritage

Adapted from Jin Yong’s Iconic Novel — Honoring a Literary Legend

In 2024, Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer became the first-ever stage production authorized by Jin Yong’s estate. Led by Zuni Icosahedron’s Artistic Director Mathias Woo, alongside esteemed Xiqu (Chinese opera) masters and rising stars, the production fused traditional Xiqu with advanced art technology in light, sound, and visuals. Featuring newly adapted Kunqu excerpts and Naamyam ballads, the performance celebrated the 100th birth anniversary of Jin Yong, the legendary master of wuxia literature.

The 2026 revival of Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer offers a fresh perspective with two reimagined Kunqu  excerpts and one Naamyam segment. This version explores the iconic characters of the martial arts epic through a distinctive lens, including: Invincible East performed by Kunqu virtuoso Kong Aiping, Nine Swords of the Lone Swordmaster directed by Xiqu innovator Zhou Long, Rapping the World of Martial Arts presented in Naamyam style by Yeung Kin-ping. The programme also features Meets Xiqu – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer, an engaging guided session designed to deepen audience appreciation for the art form. Through a vivid combination of traditional techniques and modern technology, the workshop reveals the intricate beauty of Xiqu.

With authorisation from Ming Ho Publications

Adapted from Jin Yong’s novel The Smiling, Proud Wanderer

Original Novel: Jin Yong

Director, Arts Tech Installation: Mathias Woo

Xiqu Directors: Zhou Long (Xiqu . Beijing), Kong Aiping (Kunqu . Nanjing)

Xiqu Scriptwriter: Zhou Long (Xiqu . Beijing), Zhang Jing-jing, Zhang Xin-jia

Xiqu Performers: Kong Aiping (Kunqu . Nanjing), Ren Jia-le (Jingju . Beijing)

Naamyam Writing / Performer: Yeung Kin-ping (Naamyam . Hong Kong)