Following on the successful revival of Dream of the Red Chamber in 2022 (https://chfmn.org/dream/ ), SF Opera launched an initiative to create another new opera based on another famous and beloved Chinese novel, Journey to the West: The Monkey King (猴王悟空).  SFO General Director Matthew Shilvock approached CHF for another collaboration and we jumped at the chance. The Dream of the Red Chamber Project was one of the most significant undertakings that CHF had initiated and we were ready and thrilled to collaborate again with SFO to continue reaching out to the greater communities in both MN and CA and beyond.  In  showcasing another best example from our cultural heritage, now presented in a contemporary concept and perspective, we will continue to build our common meeting space and engage interested parties in meaningful and respectful dialogues. This will further our mission of promoting mutual understanding and trust among all peoples.

SFO’s new adaptation of this novel for the western opera stage will be performed in English and Chinese and unite the disciplines of opera, movement and puppetry. It will follow the Monkey King, a beloved and iconic hero in Chinese culture, whose adventurous story symbolizes transformation, perseverance and the pursuit of wisdom. His exploits are well known throughout Asia.  Composer Huang Ruo and librettist David Henry Hwang have blended ancient Chinese and contemporary Western traditions to create a thrilling new incarnation of the mythic action hero. 

From the moment SF Opera announced this project, there was an incredible groundswell of excitement throughout the Asian community in the Bay Area.  The allure of this adventurous and irreverent Monkey had propelled a large group of ticket buyers for which this opera was their first experience in the War Memorial Opera House.  Ticket demands were so strong that SF Opera had to add TWO additional performances to their schedule!

Ann Waltner, our resident China expert, recommends the abridged translation Monkey King by Julia Lovell as well as the authoritative translation of the entire novel by Anthony Yu.

Do browse through our pages on the evolution and progress of this project from the beginning to to its ultimate triumphant world premiere on the stage of the SF Opera on November 14, 2025. Join us vicariously on our culinary excursions during Premiere Weekend and meet members of the cast and artistic team!