A scene from a rehearsal of "Yin Feng Qi." [Photo courtesy of Beijing Changjiang Culture]

A new immersive stage production, "Yin Feng Qi," aims to transport audiences to ancient China through the life of celebrated female poet Xie Daoyun, offering what its creators describe as a unique sensory experience of classical Chinese literature.

"Yin Feng Qi," which means "Rising by the Wind," draws its title from a famous line by Xie Daoyun. The poet described snowflakes as "willow catkins rising by the wind," a phrase celebrated for its evocative imagery.

The theatrical production, created by China Dream Live Entertainment (CDE Live), Beijing Changjiang Culture Co. and producers of "The Chinese Poetry Competition," presents six poetic scenes with contemporary installation art inspired by Wei and Jin dynasty culture (220-420). Its suspense-driven storytelling carries audiences a millennium back in time.

Born in 340, Xie Daoyun was a poet, prose writer, scholar, calligrapher and accomplished debater of the Eastern Jin dynasty – a celebrated symbol of female intellect in Chinese history.

In "Yin Feng Qi," her father supports her exceptional education despite societal constraints until his sudden, mysterious death. The plot follows Xie as she investigates and uncovers a criminal conspiracy involving powerful families and social injustices. She must choose between personal vengeance and her obligations to family and country.

The production marks the first live stage adaptation of "The Chinese Poetry Competition," a popular Chinese TV show that celebrates poetry and culture.

"Xie Daoyun stands as one of history's most luminous intellectual figures – a rare polymath excelling in both civil arts and martial prowess, whose uncompromising passions create dramatic tension," said director Zhang Xiao at a March 31 press event in Beijing. "While maintaining historical authenticity for most characters, we've reinterpreted their relationships through minor historical fragments, discovering new narrative possibilities in history's gaps."

Director Zhang Xiao speaks at a press event for "Yin Feng Qi" held in Beijing, March 31, 2025 [Photo courtesy of Beijing Changjiang Culture]

Music director Qi Boli shared that melody was the core focus when creating the play's innovative score, blending traditional Chinese musical elements with modern audio technology to give contemporary audiences a richer experience.

Costume and makeup designer Cao Tingting used various approaches to show distinct character types – from refined scholars to dignified officials and lively commoners. Lighting designer Yang Fan created spaces that change with the narrative, turning classical poetry into physical experiences that make audiences feel like they're stepping into the verses themselves.

Producers said that "Yin Feng Qi" presents complex characters that are open to different interpretations, set during the rarely portrayed Eastern Jin period. The immersive production aligns with China's focus on cultural storytelling, depicting characters whose wit and survival skills amid ancient turmoil drive the drama.

"Yin Feng Qi" will premiere at Nanyang Gongxiangji Theatre in Beijing on April 3.