PROLOGUE
(The early 1980s. The courtyard of the Qiao family, constructed in traditional architectural style. The action of the play unfolds from the early 1980s through to the 1990s. As time goes by, modern buildings spring up in the vicinity. Meanwhile, an open sewer remains in the corner of the yard hidden behind a short brick wall. In the moonlight and to the light of candles, some youths are dancing. Qiao Xuemei’s classmates are celebrating her 19th birthday as well as congratulating her on her admission to a top university.) CHORUS:
Let’s come sing together and dance,
The stage is set for our performance.
Congratulations on your university place,
Happy birthday with our warm embrace,
Forget all your worries under heaven,
And make our lives shine brighter then.
……