Peony Pavilion is the "ultimate dream" of all Kunqu artists, Yue says. "There is never a perfect production, and every time you see it, you find something new in it. Most importantly, you can still make improvements to a classical opera, and nurture new artists with a new production."

Gu, a veteran Kunqu artist, says: "I've witnessed Kunqu Opera rise through the ages, from difficult times to prosperous ones to an age where new actors are emerging and new audiences fall in love with the art form.

"I am sure in the near future we will be able to take this new production of Peony Pavilion, created with the effort of our whole company, on an international tour."

IF YOU GO

Peony Pavilion

7:15 pm, Nov 19;

2 pm, 7:15 pm, Nov 20.

Shanghai Grand Theater, 300 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu district, Shanghai.

021-6386-8686.