Yu Yuanfan

aimee3031@126.com

SHE was destined for the stage, embodying vitality, hope, and the essence of a vibrant life in the hearts of many. To bask in her charisma, don’t forget to set aside time this weekend for the enchanting musical “Gaby Deslys.”

Hailing from Marseilles, Gaby Deslys, a petite bourgeois possessing both beauty and intellect, did not choose to marry a well-chosen husband early like many of her peers did. At the age of 19, she made the bold decision to go to Paris in pursuit of a grand artistic odyssey.

From captivating Parisian audiences to enthralling crowds in London and New York, this multifaceted artist — singer, dancer, and actress — attracted audiences with her exceptional singing and dancing talents, high standards on performance, and extravagant costumes and hats. Through this show, you will learn about how the French music hall sensation ascended to stardom.

The musical, presented in French with Chinese subtitles, features a program consisting of French and English songs in a style that mixes ragtime and jazz, adapted from Deslys’ original compositions while dazzling audiences in New York back in 1910.

Louise Chérie, known for her roles in musicals like “Rent,” “Hair,” and “Une Étoile au Soleil” (“A Star to the Sun”), will play Deslys. Jean-Christophe Born will play Harry Plicer. Celebrated American cabaret artist Mark Nadler will play Eugène.

The show is part of a lineup of events of the 18th Festival Croisements, which opened in April and will last until December. This year’s Festival Croisements holds special significance as it celebrates the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and France.

Time: 8 p.m., June 15; 3 p.m., June 16

Tickets: 180/280/380 yuan (half-price discount for second ticket available for 280- and 380-yuan tickets)

Venue: Theater at MixC World, Nanshan District (南山区万象天地剧场)

Metro: Line 1 to Hi-tech Park Station (高新园站), Exit A