Shanghai Theater Academy, a public university dedicated to drama education, will present the Beijing opera rendition of Shakespeare’s classic comedy “The Taming of the Shrew” in Shenzhen on Dec. 28.

    Free tickets can be claimed from the WeChat “南山文体通” at 8 p.m. Dec. 26 (tonight).

    The main plot depicts the courtship of Yan Daqiao (played by Zhao Qun) and Lu Si (played by Qi Baoyu). Initially, Yan is an unwilling participant in the relationship, but Lu tempers her with various psychological torments — the “taming” — until she becomes a compliant and obedient bride. The subplot features a competition between the suitors of Yan’s more desirable sister, Xiaoqiao (played by Shi Xiaojun).

    Shakespeare’s original play is believed to have been written between 1590 and 1592. The English play’s allegedly misogynistic elements have become the subject of considerable controversy, particularly among modern scholars, audiences and readers. The play has been adapted numerous times for stage, screen, opera, ballet, and musical theater.

    Beijing opera is a form of Chinese opera which combines music, vocal performance, mime, dance, and acrobatics. It arose in the late 18th century and became fully developed and recognized by the mid-19th century. The art is regarded as one of the cultural treasures of China.

    Time: 8 p.m., Dec. 28

    Venue: Huaxia Art Center, 1 Guangqiao Street, Overseas Chinese Town (南山区华侨城光侨街1号华夏艺术中心)

    Metro: Line 1, OCT Station (华侨城站), Exit B(SD News)