The enchanting Chinese musical, Song of Heart, debuted at the Xiao Ke Musical Theater in Beijing on May 30, with performances scheduled until June 23. Written by renowned singer-songwriter Ke Zhaolei, who's known by his stage name Xiao Ke, this musical marks a touching dedication to mothers within the realm of theater.
In Song of Heart, Xiao Ke takes on the leading role of Hu Keyi, an aspiring singer-songwriter who crosses paths with Li Jingjing, a hearing-impaired woman, during a music lesson. Amid their musical journey, Hu grapples with his relationship with his mother, who battles Alzheimer's disease.
About his inspiration, Xiao Ke said: "I crafted this musical as a tribute to mothers, who embody boundless love and strength." His personal experience with his mother's Alzheimer's diagnosis in 2019 served as the emotional impetus behind this production.
With a background in classical training and a musical career spanning decades, Xiao Ke's artistry shines through. Renowned for his folk-pop melodies, he has released several albums and penned hits for notable artists like Faye Wong and Eason Chan. His iconic composition, Beijing Welcomes You, resonated widely, notably during the 2008 Beijing Olympics countdown.
The Xiao Ke Musical Theater, nestled in Beijing's vibrant 798 Art Zone and established over a decade ago by the artist himself, has hosted a total of 13 musicals penned by Xiao Ke, showcasing his enduring passion for storytelling through music and theater.