Cross Encounters presents: A friendship of life and death
A friendship of life and death is the first ever Chinese Opera physical theatre piece to be presented in Australia. Cross Encounters invites you to experience a dramatic exploration of the bonds of friendship and commitment shown through a unique physical theatre collaboration inspired by a famous ancient Chinese story.
Drawing upon a Ming dynasty story Yang Jiao’ai Lays Down His Life for the Sake of Friendship from our rich heritage, a small ensemble of performers brings to life a journey of companionship and devotion. Come and participate in this bold attempt in an under explored area, which crosses cultural bridges and meeting points in theatre making.
The possibilities and dynamics of the human body and interaction are central to this piece. The performers will use movements and rhythmic relationships to build up the atmosphere and explore the themes through different resonations. The Chinese opera element is highlighted by the presence of the dramaturg and guest vocal artist. Music will play an important part and there will be remarkable cross-cultural presentations between guitar and pipa, creating a visceral experience for the audience. The dynamics of the cross-cultural elements converging toward an unexpected encounter makes it a truly innovative work.
💐This production is supported by Melbourne Fringe Festival. Special thanks to Maxine Zhang.
And a warm welcome to our guest artist, Rui Chen! A master o of Kunqu opera, he’s redefining classical Chinese opera on the international stage. Don’t miss this extraordinary event!
We hope you enjoy this distinctive cross-cultural journey!
A friendship of life and death – embark on an intercultural theatrical journey!
🎉 Hold onto your seats, art enthusiasts! We’re thrilled to unveil our sensational debut production – an absolute game-changer in the world of performing arts. 🌎✨
Witness history in the making as we proudly present the FIRST-EVER Chinese Opera physical theatre piece-A friendship of life and death– in Australia! 
🎶 Get ready to be captivated by a dramatic exploration of friendship’s unbreakable bonds and commitment, portrayed through an extraordinary fusion of movement and emotion.
🎤 Feel the goosebumps rise as our guest vocal artist casts a spell with their enchanting voice, creating an ambiance that will transport you to a different realm altogether. 🎶🌌
🎸🪕 Brace yourselves for an awe-inspiring cross-cultural collision between the guitar and the pipa, crafting an electrifying experience that will send shivers down your spine! 🎸⚡
“🎭 Join us on the 22nd for an unforgettable theatrical experience! Melbourne’s very first Chinese-Australian performing arts organization proudly presents ‘A Friendship of Life and Death’ at the Melbourne Fringe Festival. ✨ Witness the magic of Chinese Opera and physical theatre, with live vocal performances and the harmonious fusion of guitar and pipa. Don’t miss this historic event on Oct 22nd from 3-4 pm at The MC Showroom, Prahran VIC. Supported by Melbourne Fringe Festival. See you there!
📸 Special moments (in order):
🌟Melbourne Fringe Creative Director & CEO Simon Abrahams with Olivia Wang
🌟The City of Melbourne’s Deputy Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece with Olivia Wang
🌟Melbourne Fringe Senior Publicist Adam Valentine with Olivia Wang
🌟Musical artist Mindy Meng Wang with Olivia Wang
💐This production is supported by Melbourne Fringe Festival.
Book your free ticket via https://melbournefringe.com.au/event/a-friendship-of-life-and-death/
🌐 Event Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/6304369762990368
🌈 And remember, this is just the beginning of our artistic odyssey. Follow us on our social media channels for updates on future activities that promise excitement, innovation, and endless creativity! 🌟
📱 Connect with us:
Facebook: @crossencountersau
Instagram: @crossencountersau
Twitter: @EncountersCross
TikTok: @crossencounters
Weibo: @X戏界
Xiaohongshu: @X戏界
Don’t miss out on this cultural phenomenon that’s rewriting the rules of theatre! See you there! 🎭🎉
We’re excited to announce that our current production A friendship of life and death was selected from among numerous applicants to be one of the grant recipients of Melbourne Fringe Festival 2023.
More information will be released soon. Please Keep up to date with more information by following us on our web and social medias.