Founded in 1947, China Coal Mine Art Troupe is a national arts group which combines a range of artistic modes, from rap to physical theatre. At this year’s Fringe, CCMAT brings their multi-medium show Echoes to Edinburgh audiences. Echoes tells the tale of the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Forest – a group of scholars who fled to the mountains due to the suppressive political climate of the time, instead following the beliefs of Daoism. The group’s leader, Ji Kang has disappeared from the lives of the sages after being executed. Echoes explores the sage’s search for fulfilment now that Ji Kang is gone, through dance, poetry, wine and music.
Music plays a large, symbolic role in Echoes, with Ji Kang being known as a master of the guqin, a traditional Chinese instrument. The guqin is played live throughout this performance, almost becoming a character of its own – representing the free ideals of Daoism with its beautiful and haunting melodies. The guqin’s music echoes the soul of Ji Kang, calling to the sages. The guqin is also frequently accompanied by a Chinese drum (or “gu”), bringing power and suspense to the stage. The traditional Chinese music speaks from a language of its own, holding memory and emotion that the sages yearn for.
Each actor portrays their sage with a unique and memorable attitude, especially through their physicality, with characters like Liu Ling who was known for his heavy drinking, stumbling about the stage to show his drunkenness, while also performing soaring leaps (perhaps showing his connection to the free ideals they believe in). The story is led by Ruan Ji who was known for his poetry – and thus the story is told in a poetic manner. While performed mostly in Mandarin, English subtitles are provided, yet the delivery and execution of this work almost transcends language – the music certainly contributes to this. Through tone, movement, and the use of props, we truly connect with the actors and the story they are telling. Every element of this work is practiced to perfection, with seamless tech work, pitch-perfect music, and moving acting performances. If you are looking to broaden your horizons this Fringe, explore a new culture or connect to your own, Echoes will allow you to do so through its pure beauty and artistry which a large team of creatives has clearly worked so hard on to perfect.
Echoes runs until the 16th of August at the main house at C ARTS | C venues | C aurora, with tickets available at https://res.cthearts.com/
Reviewer: Jessie Martin
Reviewed: 13th August 2025
North West End UK Rating:
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