Romance of the Western Chamber NYC Reviews and Tickets

79%

(50 Ratings)

Positive

88%

Mixed

12%

Negative

Members say

Delightful, Entertaining, Enchanting, Romantic, Funny

About the Show

In this musical adaptation of the classic 'Xi Xiang Ji,' two young lovers fly in the face of tradition and parental disapproval in 9th-century China.

Known as China's most popular love story, 'Romance of the Western Chamber' features a couple from different classes—think 'Romeo and Juliet' as poor student/rich girl romance. The lovers are aided by a clever maid, who helps them overcome daunting obstacles such as an imperious mother, a prior betrothal, and an attempted abduction by a cruel bandit. The story plays out during the surprisingly liberal 9th-century Tang dynasty, with a score combining Eastern and Western musical influences.

Show-Score Member Reviews (50)

Ambitious, Original, Slow

See it if you're interested in performances from a non-Western tradition; you enjoy folk stories; you want to support diversity in theater

Don't see it if you're looking for traditional musical - this is more a drama with songs, and the songs feel distinctly Asian with English lyrics

Enchanting, Funny, Great singing

See it if and old saga from China told through exquisite music, dancing, singing and delicate choreography. Adventure, romance, and humor. See it!

Don't see it if you prefer a dark or serious show, this is a musical with a light and humorous theme. A delightful night at the theater! Read more

Quaint, Romantic, Slow paced, Unique, Poetic

See it if interested in ancient chinese fable exhibited in operetta musical form. Brings this chinese genre closer to english speaking audience.

Don't see it if not intent on romantic & poetic at times slow paced classical melodrama. Show is well done, but still off-broadway production.

Delightful, Funny, Cliched, Slow

See it if Enjoy english versions of chinese folk tales. Enjoy over the top acting.

Don't see it if Want a polished show and top shelf singing. Read more

Slow, Delightful, Lovely singing, Funny

See it if You're open to a lovely production, nice music, a predictable plot and over-the-top book (more telling than showing)

Don't see it if You like large scale productions, ensemble singing, or nuanced storylines

Romantic, Overlong, Quaint

See it if You'd like to see more Asian artists and culture represented on the New York stage. This show features an unpolished (yet endearing) cast.

Don't see it if You're looking for a well-paced musical. You don't enjoy romantic fables, operettas, or melodramas. Read more

Funny, Exquisite, Quirky, Slow

See it if you are interested in Chinese culture and want to see a small stage production of a classic. Plot was easy to follow and some strong singing

Don't see it if you only enjoy traditional musicals, acting/singing was uneven and did not feel polished for some parts.

Entertaining, Funny, Fluffy

See it if You enjoy stories about the Chinese culture or if you are familiar or interested in this particular story.

Don't see it if You like more polished productions, you are bothered by over-the-top acting or prefer a more modern drama.

Critic Reviews (2)

Trailer

Creative team