Zhuangzi’s Dream
The Central Academy of Drama (Beijing, China) • Professional company
Google The Central Academy of Drama (Beijing, China)Zhuangzi’s Dream
By The Central Academy of Drama (Beijing, China) • Professional company
Google The Central Academy of Drama (Beijing, China)About The Central Academy of Drama (Beijing, China)
Zhuangzi's Dream is an experimental physical theatre piece by The Central Academy of Drama (Beijing, China), performed in Mandarin at main house. Running 50 minutes, it deconstructs the philosophical classic Zhuang Zhou, Dreams of a Butterfly and the folk-legend Zhuang Zhou Tests His Wife, blending traditional shadow puppetry, stylised Chinese opera and avant-garde theatrical language. Set in the lacquer garden of the Warring States period, the surreal world is inspired by Tao philosophy. The show explores the essence of humanity, love and existence, asking how one proves existence and touching upon the true nature of life itself.
Why see this show?
Rarely does a Fringe show combine shadow puppetry, Chinese opera and avant-garde theatre in a single work. Performed in Mandarin, Zhuangzi's Dream is a distinctive 50-minute journey through Tao philosophy — accessible from age 3 and unlike anything else on the programme.
£12 (8)
Monday 4 - Monday 11 August 2025
All performances at 14:50
8 performances
50 mins
8 performers
Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the show?
The show runs for 50 minutes.
Where is it performed?
The show is performed at main house.
How much are tickets?
Tickets start from £12.
What age is it suitable for?
The show is suitable for ages 3 and over, and is family-friendly.
What language is it performed in?
The show is performed in Mandarin.
What theatrical styles does the show use?
The show blends traditional shadow puppetry, stylised Chinese opera and avant-garde theatrical language.
About This Theatre Production
Zhuangzi’s Dream is a dance physical theatre and circus performance at main house during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 50 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.
Experience compelling storytelling brought to life by talented performers. Theatre at Edinburgh ranges from intimate black box productions to grand stage spectacles.
Venue: main house
main house is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.
Tips for Attending
- •Check for trigger warnings if sensitive to certain topics
- •Most Fringe theatre runs without interval
- •Latecomers may not be admitted
- •Consider matinee performances for a relaxed experience
Booking Information
Ticket Prices: From £12
Age Guidance: 3+
Content Warnings: None
Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.
Part of Edinburgh Festival 2025
Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.Zhuangzi’s Dream represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.
Looking for more dance physical theatre and circus shows at Edinburgh Festival 2025?
Browse all Dance Physical Theatre and Circus shows →Similar events
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