By Maria Bregman
The Mongol Khan is a spectacular theatrical production that tells the story of a legendary king in ancient Central Asia, who faces a dilemma between his personal love and his political duty. The show, which features a cast of more than 70 actors, dancers and musicians, is a feast for the eyes and ears, with stunning costumes, sets, and music. But behind the scenes, there is a drama of a different kind: a political and cultural clash between Mongolia and China.
The show, which opened in London’s Coliseum theater on November 20, is the first Mongolian production to tour internationally, and a rare example of Mongolian cultural expression on the global stage. It is also a bold statement of Mongolian identity and sovereignty, in the face of China’s growing influence and interference in the region.
The show is based on a 1998 play by Mongolian writer and poet Lkhagvasuren Bavuu, who drew inspiration from the history and mythology of the Mongols, the nomadic people who once ruled the largest empire in the world under Genghis Khan. The play was adapted and directed by Hero Baatar, a renowned Mongolian theater director, who wanted to showcase the rich and diverse heritage of his country.
However, the production faced a major setback in September, when it was banned in China, where it was supposed to have its international premiere. The show was invited by the Inner Mongolian authorities, who are ethnically and culturally related to the Mongols, but are under the control of Beijing. The show was shut down by the Chinese government, who accused it of promoting separatism and nationalism, and violating the “one China” policy.
The production had to relocate to another city, where it was also locked out of the theater and forced to cancel all its shows.
The incident sparked outrage and solidarity among the Mongolian people, who saw it as an attack on their culture and identity. The Mongolian government and the Mongolian Cultural Foundation, who supported the production, issued statements condemning this actions and demanding an apology. The production also received support from the British government and the British Museum, who offered to host the show in London.
The show’s co-producer, Unurmaa Janchiv, said that the production was not intended to be political, but rather to celebrate the Mongolian culture and history, which has been often overlooked and distorted by the dominant narratives of countrys, the two superpowers that border Mongolia.
“We are not trying to provoke or offend anyone, we are just trying to tell our story, our version of history, which is different from what the Chinese or the Russians tell us,” she said. “We are proud of our culture and our heritage, and we want to share it with the world.”
She also said that the show was a way of expressing the Mongolian people’s aspiration for freedom and democracy, which they have been striving for since their independence from the Soviet Union in 1990.
“We showing that we have our own culture and values, which are unique and valuable.” she said.
The show, which runs until December 2, has received rave reviews from critics and audiences, who praised its artistic quality and its cultural significance. The show is also part of the UK-Mongolia Year of Culture, a series of events and exhibitions that aim to strengthen the bilateral relations and mutual understanding between the two countries.
The Mongol Khan is a remarkable achievement for the Mongolian theater and culture, and a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Mongolian people. It is also a reminder of the importance of cultural diversity and dialogue, especially in times of conflict and tension.
The show is a rare opportunity to witness the beauty and brilliance of the Mongolian culture, and to learn more about the history and legacy of the Mongols, who have shaped the world in many ways. It is a show that should not be missed by anyone who loves theater, art, and culture.
The Mongol Khan is a must-see show for anyone interested in theater, culture, and history. It is a rare opportunity to witness the Mongolian culture and spirit, which has survived and thrived despite the challenges and pressures from its powerful neighbors. It is also a testament to the courage and creativity of the Mongolian people, who are determined to preserve and promote their identity and sovereignty in the face of adversity.