The world première of Salesman in China is happening this season at the Stratford Festival in Ontario. The script is based on the memoirs of Arthur Miller (playwright of Death of a Salesman) and Ying Ruocheng (the Chinese actor who played the lead role in Death of a Salesman in Beijing in 1983).
It was news to me that Arthur Miller had gone to China in 1983 to direct a production of his iconic play. Salesman in China is a play about his experience doing just that. There are language barriers to overcome as well as cultural ones. China did not have travelling salesmen or insurance. However, the main theme for Miller in the play is the relationship between fathers and sons and that is what he tried to focus on. Unbeknownst to Miller, he was also being reported on by Ying (albeit reluctantly) to satisfy the demands of the Communist government. As opening night approaches, it is in doubt whether the show will even be allowed to go on.
At the Avon Theatre on Downie Street, this production is presented in English and Mandarin with subtitles, which is very well done though I did have to move over one seat to be able to see the subtitles at the bottom of the stage – there was a very tall man sat in front of me. We attended a matinee a couple of weeks before opening night so the theatre wasn’t full.
The play was very interesting and well acted. Well worth a look if you’re in town.
We parked at the Cooper Lot a couple of blocks away from the theatre – it’s free. Wheelchair access to the theatre is to the left of the main doors which have steps leading up to them.
Salesman in China | Stratford Festival until October 26, 2024.
