Details

He Liyi was born a peasant from Dali in South West China. In his youth he set out to become an English teacher and marry the woman he had fallen in love with. At a time when China s working class were ignored and oppressed his quest to become a man of words was stifled at every turn. When finally realising his dream (at 58 years old he was invited to London for a BBC scholarship) he begins to tell his story. Such was his effect on the people he met and the word-of-mouth his tale created, that his caf, (Mr China s Son Cultural Exchange Caf,) in rural China is now an essential stop on backpackers routes through China. With determination and the dream of expanding the insular and predestined nature of his birthright, He Liyi s life is an epic tale of victory over all odds, and a remarkably resonant mirror to the changes that have affected China over the past 50 years. Blind Summit s unique style of presentation will weave magical imagery and beautifully crafted puppets to bring to life this remarkable story. Puppeteers will begin as invisible to the audience, gradually becoming part of the productions visual narrative. He Liyi s true story is complemented by that of an English backpacker touring China.

Cast/Performers

Tom Yang, Cassie Friend, Colin Hoult, Li-Ling Au, Charlie Smith, Ernesto Tomasini

Creatives/Company

Author(s): Mark Down, Nick Barnes
Company: Blind Summit Theatre
Producer: Martin Sutherland
Director: Mark Down
Design: Nick Barnes