A Modern Take on an Ancient Art
A centuries-old Chinese tradition just got a 21st-century twist — with Donald Trump at center stage. In a bold and absurdly humorous production titled “Trump, The Twin Presidents,” Hong Kong audiences are witnessing the former U.S. president sparring with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky — all through the dramatic flair of Cantonese opera.
The satirical musical, which is being performed at the Xiqu Centre in Hong Kong, weaves together Trump’s 2024 assassination attempt, his attack on Harvard, and his conflict with Elon Musk.
Trump in Twin Shape: The Development of the Storyline
In a dream that begins the story, Ivanka Trump first sees Chuan Pu, her father’s long-lost twin brother, living in China. When Trump is abducted by Martians mid-campaign, Ivanka enlists Chuan to impersonate him and stabilize a divided America during a trade war.
It’s part political fantasy, part pop satire — and fully grounded in Cantonese opera’s vivid traditions.
East Meets West in Satirical Harmony
Opera creator Edward Li Kui-Ming, a fengshui master turned composer, says the show is more about influence than ideology:
“Trump is really influential. That makes me want to do a drama related to him.”
Veteran actor Loong Koon-tin plays Trump with theatrical flair, complete with blonde wig, exaggerated gestures, and signature expressions. His Zelensky counterpart, played by Roger Chan, adds both conflict and comic timing.
Opera Gets a Gen Z Makeover
With young audiences laughing and applauding throughout the 3.5-hour show, it’s clear the opera is hitting the right note.
“It has Ukraine and the U.S., mixed with Chinese culture — that caught my eye,” said 16-year-old Adiva Zeng.
Unlike traditional productions, this opera leans into contemporary visuals, simplified makeup, and direct humor — while still respecting the genre’s deep-rooted history.
Characters from Every Corner of Power
The opera isn’t short on political cameos. Alongside Trump and Zelensky, viewers will spot:
- Abraham Lincoln
- Richard Nixon
- Mao Zedong
- Kim Jong Un
Each offers commentary or chaos as the fictional plot unfolds, showing that drama and diplomacy often blur.
Balancing Satire and Sensitivity
Li says he walks a fine line between humor and offense. His goal?
“My starting point is love and peace. I think everybody will love love and peace.”
Despite the show’s bold themes, the focus remains on performance and cultural reinvention, not political controversy.
Will Broadway Follow?
Li wants to take the performance to other countries and maybe even Broadway, but money and logistics are big obstacles. However, the goal is clear: using topical humor to appeal to younger, contemporary audiences, Cantonese opera will once again be in the public eye.
Source: CNN
