Core Viewpoint - The play "Yan Shi Ji," adapted from Ge Liang's novel, successfully transforms a lengthy narrative into a visually engaging theatrical experience, focusing on the culinary competition and the emotional ties between the characters [2][3]. Group 1: Thematic Exploration - The production delves into the philosophical themes of tradition versus innovation, as well as the reconciliation of old and new culinary techniques through the relationship between the master and apprentice [3]. - The narrative structure employs a cooking competition to create a sense of unfamiliarity, allowing the heavy themes to be presented in a lighter, more dynamic manner [3][4]. Group 2: Artistic Presentation - The stage design incorporates elements of Lingnan culture, blending traditional aesthetics with modern sensibilities, showcasing the director's innovative approach [4]. - The use of multimedia, such as projected images of dishes on ceramic plates, enhances the sensory experience and reflects the characters' emotional connections to food [4]. Group 3: Adaptation Challenges - Adapting a literary work into a theatrical format poses challenges, including the need to distill complex themes and character dynamics into a concise performance [4]. - The reliance on character narration to drive the plot may limit the emotional depth of certain scenes, indicating areas for improvement in future performances [4].