Yellow River News Network, Jincheng (Reporter Song Yueting) How does a memory etched in the Taihang Mountains in 1943 resonate so deeply with the passionate hearts of today's youth? How does an original play written and performed by teenagers breathe new life into the classic works of the “Yam Egg School” on stage? Recently, Jincheng Grand Theatre was packed to capacity for the spectacular performance of Fengcheng Middle School's original play Zhao Shuli in 1943. Through a youth perspective, it recreates the literary giant's creative journey, conveying the enduring power of revolutionary cultural heritage through the voices of Taihang's young generation.
The play centers on Zhao Shuli's pivotal period living deep within the Taihang Mountains. It artistically recreates his journey of emerging from the masses and returning to them, culminating in timeless masterpieces like The Marriage of Xiao Erhei and Li Youcai's Board Talk. It further highlights his heroic deeds as a revolutionary soldier, leading the people in resisting reactionary forces and pursuing national liberation. On stage, the authentic dialects and colloquialisms of the Taihang region, along with vivid scenes of rural life, are faithfully presented. This preserves the earthy, down-to-earth artistic essence and vivid, accessible language characteristic of the “Yam Egg School” of literature, while infusing it with fresh vitality through the innovative interpretations of young performers.
To restore historical authenticity, the creative team immersed themselves in archival research, making multiple visits to Mr. Zhao Shuli's hometown of Weichi Village in Qinshui County. They meticulously traced historical threads and verified intricate details. The linguistic styles, costumes, and even the living scenes and folk customs of the Taihang Mountains underwent rigorous scholarly examination and careful refinement. The young actors' wholehearted performances brought these long-forgotten historical figures vividly to life on stage.
Jincheng, the hometown of Zhao Shuli, is also a significant birthplace of the Taihang Spirit, rich in revolutionary cultural heritage. Fengcheng Middle School embraces the “Red Fengcheng” spirit as its foundational ethos, continuously exploring innovative approaches to ideological and political education. This theatrical production exemplifies the school's commitment to cultivating a “comprehensive ideological education” model—using Zhao Shuli's revolutionary spirit and creative legacy as a vehicle to transform ideological elements like the Taihang Spirit, dedication to the people, and a sense of responsibility into tangible, experiential artistic expressions. This approach helps students strengthen their ideals and convictions through artistic practice while fostering noble character through cultural inheritance. After the performance, many students shared: “Through portraying these characters, I truly grasped why Zhao Shuli could craft such moving works. I also realized how hard-won our present happiness is. We must inherit his spirit and become responsible, compassionate youth of the new era.”