THIS June, local audiences in Shenzhen will have the opportunity to view “Code of the Dynasty,” a gripping suspense period drama produced by the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Center.

Based on the popular novel by Ye Wenbiao, the Chinese-language play premiered in June last year to critical acclaim, earning an impressive 8.9 out of 10 on Douban, China’s leading film and show review platform.

Ye’s original novel draws inspiration from Zhang Zeduan’s iconic handscroll painting, “Along the River During the Qingming Festival,” which vividly portrays the bustling life and landscapes of Kaifeng, capital of the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127).

The author breathes life into the 824 figures depicted in the painting, weaving intricate detective stories against the backdrop of historical events. Through his imaginative storytelling, Ye introduces readers to the culture, lifestyle, and political intrigue of the era. The novel’s success also led to a hit TV adaptation, “Riverside Code at Qingming Festival,” which aired at the end of last year.

The stage adaptation, like the novel, focuses on two central cases: the “Mei Ship Case” and the “Eight Scholars Case.” The story begins during a scholarly gathering on Lichun, the traditional festival marking the beginning of spring. Eight scholarly friends engage in a heated debate over the controversial reforms of then-Prime Minister Wang Anshi. Their intellectual discourse takes a dark turn when a mysterious murder is introduced through a scene recreated from the painting: The crew of a large boat frantically lowers the masts to pass under a bridge, only to discover dozens of bodies onboard.

Soon enters Zhao Buyou, a low-ranking official who has lived a quiet life with his wife, a woman of mysterious origins whom he rescued 14 years prior. As their family becomes entangled in the case, the husband-wife duo works to unravel the mystery, uncovering a thrilling conspiracy.

The production boasts a talented creative team, including playwright Ma Nan, director Wang Junye, choreographer Shen Li, composer Lyu Liang, lighting designer Tan Hua, costume designer Xu Congting, and stage designer Shao Zhendong. Together, they have meticulously recreated the aesthetics of the Song Dynasty (960-1279), from the music and costumes to the etiquette and lifestyle, immersing the audience in the cultural elegance of the era.

The stage design, inspired by traditional Chinese architecture, transforms the space into a wooden maze, while the costumes are carefully modeled after Song Dynasty paintings, accurately replicating the styles and fabrics of the period.

Time: 8 p.m., June 13-14

Venue: Shenzhen Poly Theater, Nanshan District

Metro: Line 2, 11 or 13 to Houhai Station, Exit E (Li Dan)