The Suzhou Symphony Orchestra (SZS) premiered its original symphonic show, “Dream of the Red Chamber: Resonance”, at Urumqi Concert Hall in Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region on Apr 3. The performance, designed to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the 1987 version of TV series “Dream of the Red Chamber”, was a special invitation to the 4th Xinjiang Culture and Art Festival.

Structured around the theme of “city, garden, and dream”, the show comprised seven chapters including a list of classic pieces from the TV series adapted from the 18th-century Chinese novel of the same name by Cao Xueqin. While preserving the original musical essence, the symphony gave the melodies renewed emotional depth and imaginary space through rich orchestration, immersing the audiences in an evocative journey through the grandeur and sorrows of the great work.

Ouyang Fenqiang, who played Jia Baoyu in the 1987 series, joined the show as the narrator. His delicate and heartfelt narration connected the music and the story, creating a dialogue across time and space.

The premiere marked the beginning of the national tour of the show. Next, the SZS will bring this original symphonic tableau to more cities.

April 7, 2026