From September 30 to October 2, A Song of Time, a realist drama produced by Wuhan People’s Art Theatre, written by National First-Class Playwright Lin Weiran and directed by National First-Class Director Li Bonan from China National Theatre, premiered at Wuhan People’s Art Theatre’s Zhongnan Theater. The play served as the opening performance for Wuhan’s celebration of the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China.

FINE ART’s star lighting fixtures elevated the production. The FINE 1700LH BSWF, a high-power quad-category moving head light, delivered rich, saturated colors and exceptional optical clarity. With a high color rendering index (Ra and R9 both reaching 95), uniform beam distribution, and nuanced multi-layered hues, it perfectly adapted to diverse theatrical needs, seamlessly transitioning between scenes to rhythmically propel the narrative.

Synopsis of *A Song of Time*

As the curtains rose and lights illuminated the stage, the actors’ masterful performances instantly transported audiences into the past.

Set against 30 years of Wuhan’s urban transformation, the play centers on protagonist Hu Xiaoshan’s journey of self-discovery. It traces the spiritual homecoming of a wanderer, reflecting the sweeping changes of China’s modernization while capturing Wuhan’s vibrant, romantic, optimistic, and resilient city spirit.

Through flashbacks and interlaced narratives, the play deftly juxtaposes and transitions between reality, history, and psychology. A step backward returns to the past; a turn shifts the scene… The interweaving timelines create a uniquely captivating tension. Audiences journey through the characters’ memories, each scene transition unlocking a door to new emotional worlds.

Stage Design of *A Song of Time*

The set design brilliantly merges Wuhan’s local flavor with modern aesthetics. Rotating stages, elevated walkways, and platforms vividly recreate the city’s streetscapes within a compact space.

Enhanced by multimedia technology, the stage transforms into bustling locales: the lively Ma’s Lotus Root Soup restaurant, a sea of twinkling city lights, cozy home interiors, and dreamy riverfront nights. These visuals not only dazzle but also immerse viewers in the characters’ emotional landscapes.

Above the stage, iconic Wuhan landmarks emerge: the majestic Yellow Crane Tower, the grand Jianghan Customs House, and the historic Water Tower—each evoking nostalgia and forging deep connections with the audience.

"Time flows like a song; life is a melody. In this play, we return, forever young."

Credits for *A Song of Time*

Playwright: Lin Weiran

Director: Li Bonan

Set Designer: Ma Lianqing

Composer: Yu Li

Video Designer: Yang Dongliang

Lighting Designer: Wen Xiaonan

Photographers: Bomber / Theater Vision