Creative Research Spotlight: Casting The Great Comet in Shanghai

CVPA Creative Research Spotlight: Casting The Great Comet in Shanghai

In early 2024, the Shanghai Theatre embarked on an ambitious journey to stage the immersive musical Natasha, Pierre, and The Great Comet of 1812, marking its highly anticipated Asian debut. This groundbreaking production, a collaboration between the Shanghai Grand Theater, Shanghai West Bund Theater, and Eternity Culture, aimed to reimagine Dave Malloy’s acclaimed work for Chinese audiences with a fresh and dynamic interpretation.

At the heart of this creative endeavor was casting director Kate Lumpkin, CSA, whose expertise in immersive and boundary-pushing productions played a crucial role in assembling a powerhouse ensemble that blended global talent with local artistry. Auditions took place in both Shanghai and New York, drawing an impressive 4,500 applicants. From this expansive talent pool, 28 performers were selected, including renowned Chinese musical singer Chen Yuting as Sonya Rostova and Zhai Lishuotian in the dual roles of Andrey and Old Prince Bolkonsky. The lead roles were entrusted to Cooper Grodin as Pierre Bezukhov, Naomi Diana as Natasha Rostova, and Dean Cestari as Anatole Kuragin, ensuring a dynamic and internationally diverse cast.

To prepare the ensemble for The Great Comet's unique fusion of Russian folk, classical music, indie rock, and EDM influences, musical supervisor Or Matias spent two weeks in Shanghai, leading intensive training sessions. Under the direction and choreography of Chloe Treat, the cast underwent rigorous preparation to deliver a performance that seamlessly blended music, movement, and immersive storytelling.

The production’s innovative vision extended beyond casting and music. Award-winning South Korean designer Pilyoung Oh reimagined the traditional theater layout, removing 400 front-row seats to create an interactive performance space. This bold approach allowed audiences to experience the grandeur of Russian court dances up close, blurring the line between performer and spectator and elevating the immersive nature of the show.

With The Great Comet's Shanghai debut, the production not only introduced Chinese audiences to this celebrated musical but also set a new standard for international collaboration in the performing arts. Through its visionary casting, cutting-edge design, and immersive storytelling, this production stands as a testament to the power of global artistic exchange, reinforcing the importance of boundary-pushing creativity in contemporary theater.