Core Insights - The central theme of the article revolves around the performance of the Central China version of "Like a Dream," which explores eternal themes of life, death, freedom, and love through a layered narrative structure [1][2]. Group 1: Performance Highlights - The performance in Hangzhou features young dancer Meng Qingyang portraying the character Gu Xianglan, showcasing her journey from youth to middle age, impressing the audience with her ability to translate dance into dramatic expression [1]. - The contrast between the young Gu Xianglan and the older version played by Xu Li is notable, with Xu's restrained performance described as rich and textured, likened to "a jar of aged wine" [1]. - The cast includes seasoned actors like Zhang Han and Zhang Liang, whose performances have become natural and fluid over years of collaboration, with Zhang Han's portrayal of the "Fifth Patient" receiving particular acclaim for its depth [2]. Group 2: Changes in Production - The runtime of the play has been condensed from 8 hours to 6 hours and 20 minutes without cutting the script, reflecting a deep calibration of the drama's internal rhythm and flow [2]. - The theme song "Entering Your Dream" has evolved from a lyrical segment to a grand choral piece, enhancing the emotional depth and connecting characters across different timelines [2]. Group 3: Future of the Production - The upcoming 2026 tour will mark the farewell journey of the Central China version of "Like a Dream," indicating that this iteration will conclude its run, leaving a unique legacy in contemporary Chinese theater [3].

Core Viewpoint - The latest version of "Like a Dream" has been condensed from its original 8-hour runtime to 6 hours and 20 minutes, while maintaining the integrity of the script, reflecting a shift in audience viewing habits and enhancing the overall theatrical experience [3][4]. Group 1 - The production has undergone significant changes since its premiere in 2013, with efforts from artistic director Wang Keran and executive directors Chen Limei and Zhang Rui to present a refreshed version each year [3]. - The performance now includes two intermissions, bringing the total duration to 7 hours, which is designed to better align with contemporary audience preferences [3][4]. - The character of Gu Xianglan has been portrayed by actress Xu Qing for over a decade, with the younger version now played by dancer Meng Qingyang, who brings a unique physicality to the role [4]. Group 2 - A notable innovation in this version is the transformation of the theme song "Walking into Your Dream," which has evolved from a lyrical segment to a pivotal chapter that connects the fates of all characters, breaking down temporal barriers [10]. - The production will be performed at the Beijing Arts Center Opera House from January 1 to 4, with subsequent performances scheduled in Hangzhou and Ningbo, where Meng Qingyang will take over the role of the adult Gu Xianglan [14].