[Photo provided to China Daily]

"The process of performing the role is like practicing tai chi. I try to use my strength from within, not just the techniques I learned," Shen says.

In the musical, the singer will also interact with a dancer, who does popping (a form of street dance), to the music of Schubert. For Shen, it's an experiment both for them and the audience.

"The dancer represents freedom that could be a spirit in the melancholic poet's head," Shen says.

Every year Beijing Music Festival commissions young directors and artists to create new works.

"This production is a big step forward for us because it celebrates musical legacy and innovation," says Tu Song, the festival's program director.

If you go

7:30 pm, Oct 28. The Red, Taikoo Li Sanlitun North, Chaoyang district, Beijing. 400-610-3721.