Have you ever heard of the Ming Dynasty, or have you ever wished to be there? The Ming Dynasty was a Chinese imperial dynasty that ruled from 1368 to 1644. So, even if you wanted to visit now, you could not. However, audiences at the Mandala Theatre on March 20 had the chance to experience the Ming Dynasty. The Chinese play Mochou Mochou, staged as part of the Nepal International Theatre Festival, transported the audience back to that era.
Before watching the play, the first thing that caught my attention was its title, Mochou Mochou. What could it mean? A quick Google search reveals that Mochou (莫愁) in Chinese means “do not worry” or “do not grieve.”
The relevant plot
Now, let’s delve into the central theme of the story. As mentioned earlier, the play is set during the Ming Dynasty. The story revolves around a nobleman, Xu Cheng, who falls in love with a palace maid, Mo Chou, captivated by her beauty and intellect. When Xu learns that Mo Chou’s father was executed by a corrupt minister and that she was sold into servitude, he defies his grandmother’s arranged marriage to the prime minister’s daughter, Cai Yun. Xu and Mo Chou fall in love and attempt to elope, but their plan fails, leading to Mo Chou’s public humiliation. Overcome with grief, Xu falls critically ill.
The plot of Mochou Mochou highlights how class differences create obstacles in the lovers’ relationship. Even today, many couples around the world struggle with societal barriers due to class disparities. This issue has persisted for centuries, and Mochou Mochou vividly portrays its impact. The play, which comes from Nepal’s neighboring country, is equally relevant to contemporary Nepali society. Even today, we frequently hear news about how factors like caste and class create obstacles in relationships. One tragic example is the case of Nabaraj BK, who lost his life for loving someone from a so-called upper class. There are numerous such cases where lovers have been forced apart due to class disparity.
Anyone who has struggled or is struggling with a relationship due to class differences can relate to the story of Mochou Mochou.
Proving art as universal language
Directed by Li Jun, Mochou Mochou, a play with a powerful story, is also rich in technical aspects. The actors’ costumes and the varied lighting effects enhance the play’s visual appeal, making it even more engaging for the audience. In some ways, it feels like watching a fairy tale.
Props like flowers, sticks, folding fans, and umbrellas, including white backdrop, are effectively used throughout the performance. Notably, the way a white fabric strip is used to represent the strings of a Guzheng creates a magical ambiance in the theater, evoking goosebumps.
Regarding the language of the play, Mochou Mochou is performed entirely in Chinese. However, thanks to the actors’ body language and expressions, the audience can easily understand the story. The play thus proves that language is not a barrier in art—art itself is a universal language.
Overall, Mochou Mochou is not just a historical love story—it is a poignant reminder of how power and privilege have long dictated the course of human relationships.
With its compelling narrative, stunning visuals, and evocative performances, the play transcends time and language, leaving the audience with a deep sense of reflection.
As the final scene fades, one cannot help but wonder: How many love stories, past and present, have been rewritten by the invisible hand of societal constraints?
