Core Viewpoint - The play "Travelers" explores the moral and rational dilemmas faced by various characters in a surreal setting, presenting a profound reflection on human nature through absurdity and irony [1][3]. Group 1: Play Overview - "Travelers" is created by contemporary Russian playwright Oleg Bogayev, showcasing his characteristic absurd and non-realistic style [1]. - The story unfolds on a dark country road where the same "person" is run over by vehicles, leading to a moral tug-of-war among 14 different drivers of various professions and identities [1][3]. - The play serves as a cautionary tale, presenting a variety of human experiences and expressing deep thoughts on humanity through humor and irony [1]. Group 2: Directorial Vision - Director Lin Cong emphasizes the abstract imagery of "the road," symbolizing the journey into the unknown and the collective experiences of life [3]. - The stage design features scattered stones and tilted road signs, resembling a "car accident scene," with a prominent 3-meter inflatable slide that adds a surreal symbolic meaning [3]. - The slide, while appearing harmless, represents a metaphorical cliff, enhancing the abstract feel of the narrative [3]. Group 3: Character Dynamics - The central character, the "angel" who is hit, is portrayed by different actors throughout the play, creating a dynamic narrative that encourages audience engagement [6]. - The play includes 31 roles portrayed by only 8 actors, presenting a unique challenge and excitement for the cast [6]. - The actors express their creativity by embodying multiple characters, showcasing a range of emotions and experiences, which adds depth to the performance [8].

Core Viewpoint - The play "Travelers" by Beijing People's Art Theatre is a philosophical comedy that explores moral dilemmas and human nature through a unique narrative structure and stage design [1][3]. Group 1: Play Overview - "Travelers" is created by contemporary Russian playwright Oleg Bogayev, featuring absurd and surreal elements [1]. - The story unfolds on a dark country road where a single "person" is run over by vehicles, leading to a moral and rational tug-of-war among 14 different drivers, representing a bet between the devil and God [1]. - The play is described as a cautionary tale that uses humor and irony to provoke deep reflections on humanity [3]. Group 2: Directorial Vision - Director Lin Cong emphasizes the abstract imagery of "road" as a metaphor for life's journey and the uncertainties faced during dark times [3]. - The stage design includes a 3-meter inflatable slide, symbolizing a surreal and fictional environment, enhancing the play's abstract feel [4]. - The core character, the "angel" who is hit, is portrayed by different actors, allowing for a dynamic interpretation of the narrative and encouraging audience engagement [4]. Group 3: Cast and Performance - The play features 31 characters portrayed by only 8 actors, presenting a significant challenge and opportunity for creative expression [6]. - Actors are encouraged to explore their roles deeply, connecting various character traits to form a cohesive narrative [7]. - The fast-paced nature of the play requires actors to quickly switch between roles, showcasing their skills and maintaining the play's tension and humor [7]. Group 4: Performance Schedule - The current run of "Travelers" will continue until January 11, 2026 [8].