A shadow play presented in three languages, namely Chinese, English and French, named Bussiere at the Western Hills, opened on Friday. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
A shadow play presented in three languages, namely Chinese, English and French, named Bussiere at the Western Hills, was staged on Friday, depicting the story of Jean Augustin Bussiere, part of China's ongoing tribute to the French doctor who saved many Chinese lives and helped them fight against Japanese fascists.
Jean Augustin Bussiere (1872-1958), a French doctor who practiced in China from 1913 to 1954, saved many lives without fee and risked his life along "the hump route by bike," crossing the lines of the invading Japanese army to support the Chinese resistance during the World War II.
A shadow play presented in three languages, namely Chinese, English and French, named Bussiere at the Western Hills, opened on Friday. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
In 1923, Bussiere built a mansion compound in the Western Hills of Beijing, known as Bussiere's Garden, where he spent most of his time in China. It later became a free clinic, a Sino-French cultural salon, and an underground intelligence location for the CPC.
"We hope Doctor Bussiere's story can be passed on to more people, especially the younger generation. With moving images, singing, and music, shadow play can make our story more attractive and understandable to everyone, including children and international audiences," said Yu Peili, deputy director of the Haidian district cultural development promotion center.
After more than half a year's efforts, Bussiere at the Western Hills was presented to the public in Chinese, French, and English starting on Friday.
A shadow play presented in three languages, namely Chinese, English and French, named Bussiere at the Western Hills, opened on Friday. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
Haidian district also plans to present it in more languages and showcase it around the world, spreading Bussiere's story and spirit globally, according to Yu.
"Doctor Bussiere's internationalism, humanitarianism, bravery, excellent medical skills, and selflessness deserve to be remembered by people around the world," said Yu.
The translation of the play into multiple languages is being handled by teachers and students from Beijing Foreign Studies University. For many, this project offers a rare opportunity to explore a lesser-known chapter of history.
"Learning about Doctor Bussiere's selflessness and dedication has deeply inspired me. It makes me realize the importance of our work and motivates me to strive for excellence," said Wu Ziheng, a student involved in the translation.
A shadow play presented in three languages, namely Chinese, English and French, named Bussiere at the Western Hills, opened on Friday. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]
"As a resident near Bussiere's Garden and a shadow play interior, I decided to do something to honor the man who helped us so much. Although the work is tough and sometimes we get hurt, we never give up because it's nothing compared to what Mr. Bussiere did for us," said Wang Xi, the troupe's director.
Haidian district has been actively promoting local revolutionary stories through traditional Chinese arts in recent years. By creatively using platforms such as Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, BiliBili, a video platform popular among younger audiences, and immersive light and shadow exhibitions, they are attracting a broader audience to discover these hidden stories and preserving their significance for future generations.
Li Boyu contributed to this story.
