"Musicals are a Western art form, but when it is localized here, I want it to have distinct Chinese sounds," Zou Hang says, adding that he is a big fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musicals and the French musical, Notre-Dame de Paris, by Riccardo Cocciante.

In the second chapter of Shi Jing Cai Wei, Zou also borrows dancing elements of Nuoxi, a popular folk opera in China's south and east. Originating in the 16th century as a form of totem worship, the genre features performers wearing heavy costumes and face masks, symbolizing different gods.

Zou uses Chinese percussion instruments to portray the scenes of worshiping the gods and praying for the dead, especially after wars.

Contact the writer at chennan@chinadaily.com.cn