POPULAR dramatic hit "The Last Night of Jin Daban" will be staged Nov. 18-19 in Shenzhen with top Chinese talent and enhanced plot, stage set and costumes.

The drama is based on a popular novel by Taiwan-based Chinese author Bai Xianyong of the same name, which depicts the two-decade-long tale of Jin Daban, head waitress at Paramount Nightclub, a famous old Shanghai ballroom.

It is directed by Xie Jin, one of China's top film directors, with renown actress Liu Xiao qing in the leading role. Chinese writer Yu Qiuyu and composer Chen Gang are also part of the team as playwright and composer.

Since its debut in January in Shanghai, the drama has toured China, with productions in Beijing, Tianjin and Nanjing.

This is the first theatrical role for Liu, a recognized movie actress in her 40s. Audiences have been impressed by her performance, which includes singing and dancing.

"When I was on stage, I was not myself but Jin Daban. I did my best to understand the role's inner world and act in a way a head waitress is supposed to be," said Liu.

"The show has proven successful, but this is not my major concern. I will perform even there is only one person in the theater."

Editor: Wing