Better Than Broadway

The Romance of the Song Dynasty is regarded as one of the three best shows IN THE WORLD, and I had the privilege of sitting second row to witness it. Dr. Li had told me on the bus today that past students have said it to be better than Broadway. "Bold statement," was all I gave as a response. I've been to Broadway to see Wicked in high school and it blew my mind. The singing, dancing, costumes, theatrics, and acting all rolled into one exhilarating play. So when I heard that this was to top that, I was immediately prompted to disagree. Turns out I wouldn't have to "eat my own words", but rather, gain a broader perspective on what I think of as entertaining. Which has something this trip has done time and time again.
First and foremost, my favorite part was the costumes. Every song had a new costume to go with it and they were all unique and exquisite. From over the top color combinations, to beautiful chains and tassels they really made the play "pop". Next was the stage sets and special effects. A multitude of stage sets were used including a rainfall, which included actual water falling from the ceiling (yes, we did get wet), an emperors throne room, and a battle on the wall of a fortress. There were plenty of firecrackers and other explosions to bring the scenes to life. But my favorite special effect of the night was this scene where the Song Dynasty warriors were at war with the Mongolians, and right as you thought the Song warriors had won, a rain shower of arrows came down from the ceiling and stuck in the ground all around the warriors. They then all fell dead in different directions except the main hero, who later died after being discovered by a young lady who's kid he had saved earlier.
Overall, this play was incredible. I'm not saying it was better than Broadway due to the lack of singing, but it was the clear winner in theatrics and special effects.