Return of Legendary “All-Chinese Ring” with Die Walküre

Between 2013 and 2015, I saw the final three operas of Wagner’s Ring cycle at the National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing, conducted by Yu Feng, then Preisident of the China National Opera, and directed by Wang Huquan produced by the China National Opera. Because every leading role was sung by Chinese artists, the production quickly became known as the legendary “all-Chinese cast” Ring.For me, the significance of that project went far beyond novelty. It gave a generation of Chinese singers the rare opportunity to perform the complete Ring cycle, nurturing and establishing many of the country’s finest Wagnerians in the process. More importantly, it marked a historic breakthrough: a fully home-grown Chinese Ring production capable of standing on its own artistic merits.Yet after the new theatre of China National Opera was completed, this milestone production quietly disappeared from the company’s seasons. Over time, the “all-Chinese cast” Ring took on an almost mythical status - until Sunday evening at the Shanghai Symphony Hall, when Yu Feng returned with a hand-picked ensemble to present a three-hour concert version drawn from Die Walküre.Two bass-baritones were particularly remarkable. Most striking of all was the portrayal of Wotan, moving seamlessly from divine authority and rage to heartbreaking human vulnerability. In the third act, his farewell to Brünnhilde - sung by China’s leading Wagnerian soprano Wang Wei - was profoundly moving, the kind of performance that leaves the audience emotionally shattered.Under Yu Feng’s commanding direction, the combined force of Shanghai and Ninbo Symphony Orchestras recaptured the fire, discipline, and sheer dramatic intensity that defined the China National Opera Orchestra more than a decade ago. The refinement of the details was often breathtaking. When it comes to Wagner’s Ring, the national company still shows what the highest level of Chinese operatic forces can achieve.Hu Yifan, a guest of KLASSIKOM, shared her story performing and listening to Die Walküre.Filmed and interviewed on May 10, 2026 in Shanghai.This is a Chinese language programme with bilingual subtitles. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit klassikom.substack.com