The Other Shore

“I think of myself as a citizen of the world. A frail man, who has managed not to be crushed by authority, and who speaks to the world with his own voice.” — Gao Xingjian, playwright

Drawing from both personal and public experiences during Mao’s Cultural Revolution, Chinese Nobel Laureate Gao Xingjian weaves a haunting tale of an individual’s quest for freedom. This intercultural play mixes elements of the West’s theatre of the absurd with Chinese theatrical traditions in its depiction of a man’s journey across the river of life in search of enlightenment. Along the way he encounters real and imagined characters, never knowing what he may actually find on The Other Shore. His journey, told through a series of stories, explores the nature of human society and the constantly shifting relationship between leaders and followers. This production includes movement, dance, and costuming with an Asian influence. Adrienne C. Macki directs.

Because of the play’s implicit critique of Chinese society, The Other Shore was banned in Mainland China. As a result, Gao left China in 1987 and settled in France where he is now a citizen.

Following the performances, audience members may participate in a talk back session featuring Chinese community leaders, Tufts University Chinese theatre scholar Claire Conceison, ENC religion professor Eric Severson, as well as the director and the cast.

In addition to the regular schedule, a 10:00am matinee is scheduled for Thursday, February 15. This performance is for high school students.