Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer 2026 House Programme Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer 2026 House Programme Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer 2026 House Programme

Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer 2026 House Programme

2026.1.16-17 Studio Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre

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The Zuni Xiqu App is out now! Download the app and look for the five roles at the Xiqu installation in the foyer or on the Zuni website. Step into the world of Xiqu through AR, transform into different characters, and discover the artistry of Chinese opera firsthand.

Download for iOS (App Store) / Download for Andriod (Google Play)

Weekend Special: Decoding the Secrets of Xiqu with guided performance

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With innovative martial Xiqu (Chinese opera) demonstrations, cutting-edge Arts Tech, and professional guidance (with English translation available), we’re redefining how you experience traditional Chinese performing art.

2026.1.18 (Sun) 3pm
*2026.1.24 (Sat) 3pm, 8pm

Tickets: $100 (Enjoy 15% off when you purchase via the Zuni Ticketing Platform by entering the discount code ZUEP25. Quotas are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis!)

*Show your same-day ticket to enter the “Heroes Food Bazaar” outside the theatre for free! Test your skills at the “Lucky Arena” to win local treats or exclusive mementos. You might even land the grand prize: tickets to Zuni’s new 26/27 season or a complete set of Zuni Experimental Tarot! Perfect fun for the whole family!

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The Evolution of Traditional Art in the Smartphone Era

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Interview Excerpts with Mathias Woo, Co-Artistic Director of Zuni Icosahedron, on the Premiere of Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer

2024 marks the centenary of Jin Yong’s birth. I wanted to create a project that was somewhat special, as most adaptations are in the film and television categories. Jin Yong’s novels are about “storytelling”, history, and ancient tales, which are deeply connected to Xiqu. However, The Smiling, Proud Wanderer has no specific historical background, and I felt its classic characters could all be interpreted through Xiqu’s hangdang (role types)—Sheng, Dan, Jing, Mo, and Chou. Thus, I consulted with several Xiqu masters, including Ke Jun, Zhou Long, and Kong Aiping. They were all interested, and Zuni obtained the authorization from Ming Ho Publications, leading to the creation of Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre.

We wanted to transform Jin Yong’s stories and characters into exquisite pieces of Xiqu: using Jingju(Peking opera) and Kunqu(Kunqu opera) forms, combining visual and auditory elements, and employing new audio and projection technologies to innovate from within tradition.

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The Characterisation of Linghu Chong (Text: Zhou Long)

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The “Jianghu” depicted by Jin Yong is filled with the glint of blades and the shadows of swords, yet it also reveals a tender heart within a heroic soul. While frequently adapted for film and television, the Jianghu martial arts world is rarely presented on the theatrical stage. My goal is to manifest the situational and visual essence of the martial arts spirit in theatre; the aesthetic concepts of Jingju and Kunqu operatic arts share a profound affinity with this vision.

Jingju and Kunqu possess unique performance rhythms and characteristics. They emphasise “Xieyi” (freehand/impressionistic expression) and the articulation of intent, which more effectively highlights the inner spirit of martial artists. Linghu Chong’s extraordinary martial prowess and his elegant, carefree figure and disposition provide infinite creative space for character shaping through the Xiqu performance techniques of Chang (singing), Nian (recitation), Zuo (acting), and Da (martial arts).

For example: when Linghu Chong is punished and banished to “Siguo Cliff” (the Cliff of Reflection), we place the Wusheng actor (martial male performed by Ren Jiale) with his “Zoubian” (night-walking) movements in a virtual projection environment. Accompanied by variations of the Xiao (flute) and Zheng (zither) alongside percussive drum beats, this evolves into a new “night-walking dance” that captures Linghu Chong’s journey through the deep of night. When he reflects on his past misdeeds at Siguo Cliff, or enters the cave to find the ground strewn with skeletons, we fully utilise the Qupai (labelled melody) suite singing format. This serves to express the intricate thoughts and the inner turmoils on Linghu Chong’s mind. Furthermore, when he sees the carvings of “sword techniques” on the stone wall and instinctively draws his sword to practise, we use various sword-holding postures and techniques—such as “Jianhua” (sword flowers), “Tuigong” (leg work), and the “Woyu” (reclining fish) pose — accompanied by rhythmic music to showcase his superb martial skills and extraordinary perception.

During the creative rehearsal process, the greatest challenge has been determining how to enable the Xiqu performance techniques of Chang, Nian, Zuo, and Da to play their roles in interpreting the plot, shaping characters, and expressing emotions, while simultaneously achieving an organic integration with modern technological means and contemporary theatrical concepts.
The Role Shifting Between Sheng and Dan in Dongfang Bubai (Text: Kong Ai-ping)

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In Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer, traditional Xiqu is integrated with modern technology. The stage performance utilises the unique tension of traditional Xiqu to shape the character, allowing the audience to experience a “Kunqu-style” Dongfang Bubai. This portrayal combines the graceful and ever-changing charm of Kunqu with the free-spirited and heroic aura of martial arts, while the stage employs multi-media arts technology to present a modern visual experience.

To complement the interplay between the ancient and the new on stage, and to reflect the characterisation involving both Sheng (male) and Dan (female) roles, the performance externalises this “split” by dividing the stage into two distinct performance areas. This setup reveals both the fragmented “Jianghu” (martial arts world) and the character’s fractured psyche. Through the use of mirrors on stage, the audience can witness the character’s instantaneous transformation between Sheng and Dan, both inside and outside the reflections. Fans and swords are utilised as primary props: the flipping of the fan reveals the two sides of the character’s identity, amplifying the madness and distortion within; the sword serves as a symbol of “power” and the “ruthlessness” in Dongfang Bubai’s heart. Ultimately, when Dongfang Bubai hands the sword to Yang Lianting and sheds his own robes and headgear, the audience can feel that the triumphs and defeats in the martial arts world of Jianghu are but a fleeting moment.

As an iconic character in The Smiling, Proud Wanderer, Dongfang Bubai offers immense scope for performance due to his unique gender identity, complex life experiences, and conflicted inner world.
Repertoire

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Rapping the World of Martial Arts

‘Through the ages, we fight to rule over the world. I do as I please amidst this vast universe.’
Director, Arts Tech Installation: Mathias Woo
Naamyam Writing / Performer: Yeung Kin-ping

David Yeung as the Venerable Fangzheng (voice-over)
Zachary Pink Yung as the Abbot Chongxu (voice-over)

Character Profile: Ren Woxing, former leader of the Sun Moon Holy Cult and master of the “Star-Sucking Skill”, returns to reclaim his throne after twelve years of imprisonment. His daughter’s romance with Linghu Chong draws the Mount Hua Sect disciple Linghu into the centre of the Sun Moon Holy Cult’s power struggle.

To heal a deadly injury, Linghu Chong learns Ren’s “Star-Sucking” technique, binding his fate to the aging leader. Their relationship—shifting between allies and enemies — becomes a pivotal force in the martial arts world of Jianghu, entangled between personal gratitude and the brutal pursuit of power.

【乙反南音慢板】(Melodic structure)
A ferocious tiger is now a grey-haired man.
Regal stairs are now dilapidated slabs.
Filled with devious schemes, I had wielded power.
Yet I was fooled by a treacherous minion
who deposed me to become ruler.
My three thousand followers were forced to cower.
Honour and pride scattered with my dreams.
My plans to conquer the world were all in vain.
My courage and valour now come to nought.
I still can extract my enemy’s essence, but my chances are bleak.
One day I’ll be entombed, reduced to broken bones.
My ghostly spirit will cry with the winds.
I may be imprisoned, but I can still plant venomous seeds.
Iron chains cannot restrain a mighty dragon.
【乙反木魚】(Melodic structure)
I was born a wily serpent.
I’m used to moving Heaven and Earth.
A vicious, gluttonous beast,
I’ll annihilate all clans and bury the five sacred mountains.
【乙反煞尾】(Melodic structure)
Let me carve my words in stone to ensnare others.

【南音慢板】(Melodic structure)
The third is Feng Qingyang,
the lone swordmaster seeking defeat,
his skills unrivalled,
attaining the mystical state of non-self.
At Huashan, he stood above all others,
unlike those who craved fame and recognition.
The second is you, Venerable Monk.
You never flaunt your powers as I do.
You’re a genuine man living with Nature.
You’re the only person who mastered switching sinews.
Pure and lofty, you’re a Buddhist Master,
merciful, kind-hearted and benevolent.

The first is Invincible East.
I did everything but ended up with nothing.
He feigned excuses to access the Sunflower Manual.
Who knew he’d become an unbridled horse,
waiting patiently by the cliff with his deceit.
He then seized the chance to lead a mutiny.
I thought I could move Heaven and Earth,
that I had my way to summon the winds and the rains.
But I failed and he took me prisoner.
No matter how strong you are, there’s always another stronger.

That is you, Chongxu, Abbot Niu.
You wield the Tai-chi Sword, commanding the Wudang Clan.
Rising above the mundane world, wearing a crane-patterned robe,
you maintain a calm countenance, your body light as feather.
Focussed on your martial arts, you are righteous and just,
your swordplay unfathomable and elusive.
One day the crane will carry you to Paradise.
There you’ll stand alone on the sacred mount.

【南音慢板】(Melodic structure)
You once freed me from captivity.
This time, I rely on you, my good son-in-law.
Wield your Nine Swords of the Lone Swordmaster.
You’ll beat him, winning two out of three.
A long time ago, I left the verdant mountains as a youth.
The path to the Black Wood Cliff was tortuous.
Remembering erstwhile enmities, settling old accounts,
I’ll recover lost territories and restore my kingdom.
I’ll kill those traitors, rid the monsters,
rise to power and rule over all.
The martial arts world will weather winds and storms.
The Sun-Moon Clan will see the light again.
Good and bad, righteous and evil—they’re only illusions.
In the end, we’ll see who’s the winner, who’s the loser.

【乙反木魚】(Melodic structure)
Suffering and catastrophes are but like a dream.
Change is the natural order with passing time.
Through the ages, we fight to rule over the world.
I do as I please amidst this vast universe.

Nine Swords of the Lone Swordmaster

Ren Jia-le (Wusheng, a martial role) as Linghu Chong
Percussion (recording), voice-over (as Yue Buqun): Zhou Long
Director, Arts Tech Installation: Mathias Woo
Xiqu Director: Zhou Long (Beijing)
Scriptwriters: Zhou Long, Zhang Xin-jia

Live Percussion: Yeung Kin-ping

Percussion (recording): Zhou Long
Dizi/Dongxiao (recording): Cheng Shing-tai
Guzheng (recording): Chan Tin-chi

Synopsis: Exiled to Siguo Cliff for associating with the “unorthodox” martial arts sects, Linghu Chong discovers secret carvings on the cliff that shatter his faith in his master and the Mount Hua Sect. However, a chance encounter with his predecessor, Feng Qingyang, leads to a profound breakthrough. Under Feng’s tutelage, Linghu masters the supreme “Nine Swords of Dugu,” a technique overcoming every martial arts style in the world.

The Sea Laughs (〈滄海一聲笑〉)

Lyrics & Music: James Wong Jim

Xiao (Recording): Ren Jia-le

Shuang Diao – Xin Shui Ling (Melodic structure)
A brave warrior is now confined to a cliff.
I look at shrivelled trees amidst sad winds.
As I raise my eyes, I see a mountain peak.
There’s nothing but silence and misery.
I was a tempestuous young man.
Now I kneel before this cliff, my pride wounded.

Zhu Ma Ting (Melodic structure)
Here I stand before a stone slab.
Here I stand before a stone slab.
I ponder how many heroes have suffered hardships
through the changing seasons,
standing here as the years passed by.

Devastated, I dare not look back in my life.
Thank you for keeping me company.
A year hence,
I’ll return to Huashan and regain my name.

Zhe Gui Ling (Melodic structure)
Suddenly, I recall my Master’s words.
I howl with regret
as I turn around.
With my eyes open wide,
I ponder the past
as rage surges from my navel.
Let me plunge my sword, I’ll break this stone.
What a surprise! It leads to an open cave.

Suddenly, I forget my sorrow
as this cave appears before me.
But here, skeletons are piled high.
What a distressing sight!

Invincible East

Those who seek divine combat skills must first castrate themselves. The undefeatable cult leader is also an obsessive lover who would give up power for attractive men. During his conquest of the martial arts world, Dongfang Bubai has transformed from sheng (male) to dan (female). Is he really invincible?

Kong Ai-ping (Sheng to Dan) as Dongfang Bubai

Yeung Kin-ping as Ren Woxing
Director, Arts Tech Installation: Mathias Woo
Xiqu Director: Kong Ai-ping
Scriptwriter: Zhang Jing-jing
Live Percussion: Yeung Kin-ping

Synopsis: Dongfang Bubai, the leader of the Sun Moon Holy Cult in The Smiling, Proud Wanderer, is a peerless martial arts prodigy. After seizing power and imprisoning Ren Woxing, he seeks to master the ultimate skills in the Sunflower Manual. To achieve this, he performs self-castration and eventually becomes the Undisputed Number One in Martial Arts. Yet, following this sacrifice, he abandons his pursuit of power to lead a simpler life as a devoted lover. During the battle at Black Wood Cliff, his distraction while protecting his partner, Yang Lianting, leads to his fatal defeat by Linghu Chong and Ren Woxing.

Lan Hua Mei (Melodic structure)
Mountains and lakes are shrouded in heavy mist.
I want to reach the pinnacle but am unsure of the path.
My mind is filled with discontent; another day passes.
The ambition to rule the world is always on my mind.
At times I’m fearful, at other times roused with madness.

Qian qiang (Melodic structure)
With my own sharp blade, I castrated myself.
How come I wasn’t flustered by blood and violence?
I can’t be bothered by mundane matters anymore.

I won’t bother myself with others’ chaos.
I’d rather enjoy the fragrance of radiant blossoms.

Chao Yuan Ge (Melodic structure)
Fortunes are determined by Heaven, we have no choice.
There’ll always be winners and losers.
All along, good and evil are hard to justify.
Looking back, everything is but in vain.
The Five Mountain Alliance will meet its tragic fate.
Creative Team

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Original Novel: Jin Yong

Artistic Director, Curator: Mathias Woo

Xiqu Directors: Zhou Long, Kong Ai-ping
Xiqu Scriptwriters: Zhou Long, Zhang Jing-jing, Zhang Xin-jia
Director, Arts Tech Installation: Mathias Woo
Xiqu Performers: Kong Ai-ping, Ren Jia-le
Naamyam Composer & Lyricist / Performer, Percussion: Yeung Kin-ping
Music Director, Assistant Artistic Director: Cedric Chan
Illustration: Lai Tat-wing
English Translation: Joanna C. Lee

Adapted from Jin Yong’s novel The Smiling, Proud Wanderer
With authorisation from Ming Ho Publications

Technical Advisor, Lighting Designer: Mak Kwok-fai
Sound Designer: Anthony Yeung

Costume Design: Favour Production

Senior Manager (Production and Technical): Chow Chun-yin
Video, Live Feed, Server Base Control System: Yu Pui-ho, Benny Woo, Johnny Sze
XR video shooting: Votion Studios

AR App

Coding: Cordex Intelligence Limited (Frankie Pang, Derek Tsang, Ronald Shea, Tiffany Leung)
Coordinators: Ho Yin-hei, Chow Chun-yin
User Interface Design Execution: Alva Lam, Coco Cheung
Research: Chuk Yin-man, Zachary Pink Yung

Programme & Administration

International Exchange Director: Wong Yue-wai
General Manager (Administration and Finance): Jacky Chan

General Manager (Programme): Doris Kan
Senior Manager (Programme): Bowie Chow
Administration Manager: Colin Cheng
Programme and Promotion Manager: Momoko Ng
Assistant Manager (Programme): Niki Luk
Project Assistant: Yumi Hui
Front of House Assistants: Ricky Cheng, Carson Chung, David Yeung

Public Relations: Link-Work Communications
Publicity Coordinator: Luka Wong
Ticketing & Digital Marketing: Ho Yin-hei

‘Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer’ Key Visual Design: Lee Ken-tsai
Graphic Design (Poster): Pollux Kwok, Tian Ye
Photography: Nobby Chung, Tree Lo
Video Documentation, Trailer Editing: Tree Lo
Amination for Promotion: Xiao Ru-ting
Graphic Design for Promotion: Carol Mak
Translation for Promotion: Mona Chu, Gladys Chiu

Interns: Winky Kwok*, Reina Lo*, Wong Lok-chee, Kelly Zhong

*Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology (HKIIT) Higher Diploma in Theme Park and Theatre Creative Technology

Volunteers: Aatikah Kashan, Chan Lok-ching, Silvia Chui, Tris Lo, Clara Ng, Chéri Wong, Carson Yeung

“Zuni Experimental Tarot”

Creative Director: Mathias Woo
Illustrator: Lai Tai-wing
Tarot Advisor: Theresa Leung
Graphic Design Assistant: Coco Cheung

Acknowledgement

Ming Ho Publications
Jiangsu Performing Arts Group Kunqu Troupe
Eslite Bookstore
Kubrick

Mr Shi Xia-ming
Ms Kitty Yip
Mr Zhao Yu-tao

Its premiere in 2024 was funded under the Arts Technology Funding Pilot Scheme by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Unlock the World of Xiqu with Your Phone

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Zuni is proud to launch its Xiqu mobile app, offering a fun and accessible way to explore traditional performing arts. Through text, images, and video demonstrations, this multimedia experience brings the heritage of Xiqu closer to everyday life.

Visit the themed installations outside the theatre! Before or after the performance, use the app to scan the patterns on the banners and discover hidden surprises.

Supported Languages: Traditional Chinese, English, Simplified Chinese

Featured Content: The Performer’s Craft, Xiqu Roles, Stage Symbols, Xiqu Coding

Free Download (iOS)

Free Download (Android)

Scan the Illustrations
Zuni Experimental Tarot Set

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In the 25/26 season “Hong Kong Style Experiment,” Zuni continues its cross-disciplinary creative journey. This includes the “Theatre Tarot” series—a collaborative creation by Mathias Woo and comic artist Lai Tat Tat Wing—extending the theatrical imagination beyond the stage.

Each of the four productions in this season features its own exclusive series of tarot cards, inviting you to engage in a visual dialogue with the performance. Observe closely and you will find the visual language of the tarot overlapping wonderfully with the stage narrative, offering a unique perspective for every show.

A dedicated booth is available at the venue where the full tarot collection is on sale in limited quantities. This is your final chance to add these exclusive items to your collection!

Learn More

Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer 2026 House Programme Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer 2026 House Programme Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer 2026 House Programme

Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer 2026 House Programme

2026.1.16-17 Studio Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre

Weekend Special: Decoding the Secrets of Xiqu with guided performance

+-

The Evolution of Traditional Art in the Smartphone Era

+-

The Characterisation of Linghu Chong (Text: Zhou Long)

+-

The Role Shifting Between Sheng and Dan in Dongfang Bubai (Text: Kong Ai-ping)

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Repertoire

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Rapping the World of Martial Arts

Nine Swords of the Lone Swordmaster

Invincible East

Creative Team

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AR App

Programme & Administration

*Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology (HKIIT) Higher Diploma in Theme Park and Theatre Creative Technology

“Zuni Experimental Tarot”

Acknowledgement

Unlock the World of Xiqu with Your Phone

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Zuni Experimental Tarot Set

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Explore more programme

Jin Yong Xiqu Theatre – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer

Xiqu Guided Performance: Meets Xiqu – The Smiling, Proud Wanderer

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