A modern interpretation of one of China's most traditional Kunqu Opera classics, "The Peony Pavilion," made its debut at Kezhi Garden in Zhujiajiao watertown on Saturday night.

By imitating only natural sounds and visuals, the idea is that the audience will not simply watch but rather be encapsulated into the love story and the beauty of the surrounding gardens.

The most famous of all Kunqu Opera works, "The Peony Pavilion" tells the story of the love between Du Liniang, the daughter of a high-ranking official and a poor young scholar named Liu Mengmei. Kept apart by circumstance, the story mirrors that of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet."

Only showing on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between June and October, guests should expect not only a traditional Chinese play in an original setting, but also the opportunity to enjoy Chinese ritual and hospitality.