Zhao Li is the hard-headed manager of a small Sichuan opera troupe living together in a small theatre in a run-down area of Chengdu, China. On hearing that the theatre is due for demolition, Zhao Li frantically searches for a new place to perform whilst hiding the news from her troupe for fear of them disbanding. As things become fraught, Zhao Li’s real life and the opera begin to merge. Shining a spotlight on how China’s urban regeneration affects tradition and community, whilst maintaining a wonderful humour, To Live To Sing is a delight from start to finish. SE
Photo: © Image X Productions