FOLLOWING its critically acclaimed world premiere in London earlier this year, the English-language musical “Ne Zha” is set to make its Chinese debut this September in Shenzhen. Co-created by production teams from Britain, the U.S. and China, the show reimagines one of China’s most beloved mythological figures — the child hero who dares to challenge fate — through a contemporary, internationally accessible theatrical lens. Rooted in the legendary tale of Ne Zha, the musical adapts iconic episodes such as the “Reincarnation of the Spiritual Pearl,” the “Battle Against the Dragon King,” and the “Rebirth from the Lotus Flower” for the modern stage. While preserving the essence of Eastern storytelling, the production boldly fuses musical theater, rock, and hip-hop — bringing a fresh, cross-cultural energy to a story that has captivated Chinese audiences for centuries. The production is the fruit of a cross-cultural collaboration, bringing together theater professionals from around the globe. It is produced by Emma Wang, directed by British-Chinese director Jennifer Tang, with music and lyrics by British composer Duncan Walsh Atkins, who is the musical director of the Olivier Award-winning “Showstopper! The Improvised Musical.” Costume design is by Emily Rebholz, an American designer known for her work on the Tony Award-winning production of “Dear Evan Hansen.” “We don’t normally have stories like this that frame Chinese or East Asian characters in such a heroic way. So it is a real privilege to be able to bring a Chinese superpower to the stage,” said Jennifer Tang, the musical’s director. For the Shenzhen premiere, the entire original London cast and band will travel to China, performing live at every show. With full orchestral accompaniment, each song, each beat, and each emotional crescendo unfolds in real time before the audience — bringing the raw power of live theater to every performance. Time: 8 p.m., Sept. 9–13; 2:30 p.m., Sept. 12–13 Venue: Shenzhen Poly Theater, Nanshan District (深圳保利剧院) Metro: Line 2, 11, or 13 to Houhai Station (后海站), Exit E(SD News) | 