Ruth Kanner, past fellow of the IIAS and organizer of the "Interrupting Kafka: Research Laboratory for Scholarship and Artistic Creativity," has brought her innovative directorial vision to Shanghai. Her adaptation of Shen Congwen’s 1934 novel "The Border Town" transforms actors into narrators and engages the audience as active participants.

"The Border Town" tells the story of Cuicui, a young woman living with her grandfather in rural Hunan. As she matures, Cuicui experiences the complexities of first love, torn between two brothers, Nuosong and Tianbao.

The performance uses a central rope as a metaphor for the river, symbolizing connections and divisions within the story. Audience members are invited to contribute personal reflections, which are woven into the performance, enhancing its interactive nature.

This immersive production, featuring personal reflections and traditional Chinese elements, premiered at the Shanghai Dramatic Arts Center on May 9, 2024.