The music drama Nan Kong featuring Southern Confucianism is staged at the Quzhou Poly Grand Theater in Quzhou, Zhejiang province on Sept 5. [Photo/qz123.com]

The music drama Nan Kong, which features Southern Confucianism, premiered in Quzhou at the Quzhou Poly Grand Theater on Sept 5. It is the first music drama in China to be themed on Southern Confucianism.

Nan Kong tells the story of Kong Zhu, the 53rd direct descendant of Confucius, and the continuation of Confucian culture by the Kong clan in the south.

The script is divided into two halves: "Crossing" and "Rites". The first half tells the story of Kong Zhu facing changing times and choosing between ideals and his hometown. The second half tells the story of Kong Zhu returning to Quzhou to become an official and to promote Confucianism.

Zhong Hao, the general director, said that Nan Kong is like a flowing Southern Confucianism holy land, allowing people to feel the ancient heritage of the culture.

Nan Kong will be staged at the China National Opera House from Sep 12 to 13 in Beijing. In November, it will participate in the second National Excellent Musical Performance held in Xiamen and then start a national tour.