The Arcane

"The Arcane" is the courtesy name of the renowned ancient Chinese female poet Xuanji Yu (c. 840–c. 868), who lived during the late Tang Dynasty. Her poetry exemplifies a distinct quality that highlights magnificent independence in the context of humanism. According to unofficial history, she was accused of murdering her maid at the age of 26. However, this may merely be an arcane rumor that obscures the truth.
In this opera, the poet reflects on her beautiful and genius-filled early life before her death, which resulted from the accusations made against her while she was in prison. At the beginning of the five scenes, a Chinese vocalist will sing the historical poetry left by Xuanji in Chinese, highlighting the most significant moments of her life. Then, the soprano comes to present Xuanji’s monologue. The workshop will present 2 to 3 scenes of the entire opera, focusing on the depressive period in the short but profound life of Xuanji, the talented young poet. It will take the audience on a journey through her innermost thoughts on self-worth and her poignant search for love.