‘Ballad of Mu Lan’ is a fresh take on girl power

• Link to: Northwestern Now Story

EVANSTON, Ill. --- Northwestern University presents the Imagine U production of “The Ballad of Mu Lan,” Feb.  24 through March 6 in the Josephine Louis Theater at the Wirtz Center for Performing Arts on the Evanston campus. Colorful costumes, a vibrant set, singing, dancing and fast-paced action fill this classic retelling of the ancient Chinese folk story.

The story of Mu Lan dates back to the sixth century and has been told countless times, but none quite like the one Northwestern audiences will witness.

“Families may be familiar with Disney’s version of ‘Mulan,’ but this production is a very different adaptation,” said Alvin Chan, writer, director and an alumnus of

Northwestern’s Master of Fine Arts program in directing. “Our version draws very heavily from a traditional Chinese theater form called Jīngjù, or Beijing opera.

“This new telling of an ancient Chinese legend combines traditional Chinese theatrical techniques and contemporary music for a brand-new take on a classic story of girl power. A central message to this production is women empowerment,” Chan said.

The story of Mu Lan follows a young Chinese woman who disguises herself as a man and joins the army to save her father’s life. Mu Lan’s biggest battle might be with her confidence as she has a lot to learn and a lot to prove.

The Imagine U production of “The Ballad of Mu Lan” features an all-female cast and is recommended for audiences ages 5 and up.

Along with the production, the following are engagement opportunities for children:

Evanston Public Library event

Evanston Public Library will host an online preview party at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 19. This event will include a reading and translation of the traditional Chinese poem, a sneak-peek scene from the play, along with martial arts and sensory drama activities. More information and the link to reservations are available on the library website.

Creative drama workshops

Following the 2 p.m. Sunday performances on Feb. 27 and March 6, Northwestern teaching artists and cast members will offer a 45-minute creative drama workshop. The workshop is free and open to any child who attends the show. Parents and guardians are encouraged to participate. Space is limited; reservations are required and can be made by e-mailing the Wirtz Center Box Office at wirtz@northwestern.edu.

Sensory friendly performance

A sensory friendly performance will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, March 6. These adapted performances provide a relaxed and safe environment allowing every audience member to engage with the show. For more information, visit https://wirtz.northwestern.edu/the-ballad-of-mu-lan/

Tickets are available online and by phone at 847-491-7282 or in person at the Wirtz Center box office. The box office is located in the Ethel M. Barber Theater lobby, 30 Arts Circle Drive on Northwestern’s Evanston campus. Box office hours are Tuesdays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m.

The ticket prices are $15 for the general public and $12 for full-time students and children.

Performance Schedule:

Thursday, Feb. 24, 7 p.m. 
Friday, Feb. 25, 7 p.m. 
Saturday, Feb. 26, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Sunday, Feb. 27, 2 p.m.
Friday, March 4, 7 p.m.
Saturday, March 5, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Sunday, March 6, 2 p.m.

For patrons, proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours (two days) of a show is required for entry for adults and children ages 5 and older. Parents of children under the age of 5 must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of a show.  Northwestern is offering adult visitors COVID-19 rapid antigen testing to comply with guidelines.

The Wirtz Center has outlined guidelines related to COVID-19 for the safety of its student performers, staff and crew members, and patrons.

The Wirtz Center is a member of the Northwestern Arts Circle, which brings together film, humanities, literary arts, music, theater, dance and visual arts.