Returning to the Olympus

War X Fraternity X Science Fiction X Adventure
The Myth of the Universe and the Final Battle between Light and Darkness

In “Returning to the Olympus”, the second collaboration between The Puppet & Its Double Theater and NSO (National Symphony Orchestra), it takes the challenge to adapt Igor Stravinsky’s epic ballet music “Apollo” and “Les Noces (Wedding)”, in which it extends the romantic, dramatic, and exotic music in harmony with shadows and giant string puppets to recreate a star world legend about God of Light and God of Darkness. As actors, wearing light sets on their bodies, move their bodies on downstage, the light and shadow become a magic show presenting a stunning science-fiction effect through the genuinely physical, almost tech-free, mise-en-scène. The artistic style reflects a life philosophy based on the co-dependence between light and darkness, while what happens on various planets in “Returning to the Olympus” can be read as the reference to contemporary environmental issues. A journey in the fictional star world begins as the powerful momentum of the symphonic music marches on.

Produced by National Symphony Orchestra
Premiere: April. 21, 2012 / National Theater, Taipei
Conductor: Yin-fang CHANG
Director, Chia-yin CHENG
Playwright & Associate Director, Meng-huan LIN (Dazi)