SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- A new opera based on the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West made its world premiere Friday evening at the War Memorial Opera House in San Francisco, presenting the Monkey King to audiences through a blend of Eastern and Western artistic traditions.
"Monkey King," with music by composer Huang Ruo and a libretto by playwright David Henry Hwang, was commissioned by San Francisco Opera in partnership with the Chinese Heritage Foundation of Minnesota. The opera will run through Nov. 30.
Adapted from the opening chapters of Ming Dynasty writer Wu Cheng'en's Journey to the West, the opera chronicles the early exploits of the Monkey King, or Sun Wukong. Performed in both English and Chinese, it weaves opera, dance and puppetry into the story of the stone-born monkey who challenges the gods of the seas and heavens in his pursuit of immortality.
Running about 2 hours and 20 minutes, the production combines centuries-old techniques with modern innovation. Traditional Chinese shadow-puppet methods appear alongside digital mapping projections, creating a visual language that connects historical forms with contemporary stage design.
Costumes also reflect this fusion: several chorus outfits draw from traditional patterns while incorporating street-art elements made possible through 3D printing. The score mirrors this blend by pairing Western symphonic instruments with traditional Chinese ones such as the pipa, Chinese opera gong and small crash cymbals.
Calling the Monkey King "Asia's supreme superhero," Huang Ruo said the character's appeal reaches far beyond China.
"The Monkey King's adventures awaken in him an understanding of true power which leads to his self-enlightenment," he said, voicing hope that the new opera will always appear in any "turbulent" time as "a positive light."
San Francisco Opera General Director Matthew Shilvock said the production continues the company's long-running commitment to cultural exchange. "I am so proud that San Francisco Opera is bringing this operatic 'Monkey King' to life," he said, calling it a privilege to present "one of the great stories of Chinese literature on the American opera stage."
To deepen audience engagement, San Francisco Opera and community partners are hosting a range of cultural activities during the performance run. The opera house features hands-on experiences and an art exhibition showcasing works inspired by the Monkey King legend, along with opportunities for traditional Chinese calligraphy and themed photo sessions.
Additional events -- including panel discussions, puppetry workshops, film screenings, exhibitions and an outdoor public marketplace -- extend the world premiere beyond the stage and into the wider community. ■