Gabby Wong (1899, KAOS) and Millicent Wong (The Crucible, Sheffield Crucible) have been announced as the leads in the world premiere of Shanghai Dolls at Kiln Theatre. Directed by Paines Plough’s Joint Artistic Director Katie Posner, the production will run from 3 April to 10 May 2025, with a press night on 10 April.
The play explores the untold story of two of the most influential women in Chinese history during the Cultural Revolution—one who became China’s first female director and the other the architect of the Cultural Revolution. Gabby Wong and Millicent Wong will portray Lan Ping/Jiang Qing and Li Lin/Sun Weishi, respectively.
Kiln Theatre, in association with Paines Plough, has assembled a creative team that includes Jean Chan (Designer), Aideen Malone (Lighting Designer), Nicola T Chang (Composer & Sound Designer), Akhila Krishnan (Video Designer), and Annie-Lunnette Deakin-Foster (Movement Director). Holly Ellis joins as Associate Lighting Designer, with Imy Wyatt Corner as Kiln-Mackintosh Resident Assistant Director.
Amy Ng, a British-Hong Kong playwright, has previously written Under the Umbrella (Belgrade Theatre Coventry, UK Tour), Acceptance (Hampstead Theatre), and Shangri-La (Finborough Theatre). Her work frequently examines identity, history, and politics, drawing on her background as a historian. Shanghai Dolls explores the relationship between Madame Mao and Sun Weishi, highlighting the intersection of personal ambition and political ideology, revealing the price of power and sacrifice.
Shanghai Dolls follows two aspiring actresses who meet while auditioning for Ibsen’s A Doll’s House in 1930s Shanghai. As political turmoil engulfs China, their friendship is tested, ultimately shaping their lives and the country’s history.
Shanghai Dolls runs 3 April to 10 May 2025 at Kiln Theatre, London
Tickets for Shanghai Dolls range from £15 to £40.
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