[Photo provided to China Daily]

Best-known for structures like the Absolute Towers in Canada, Ma uses expressionistic architecture for the opera settings.

Tian also uses dance in the opera, which she considers a "breakthrough" for original Chinese opera.

Co-director Yang Xiaoyang, who is also the vice-president of the Chinese Dancers Association, choreographed the dance moves for the battle scene and the scenes on the grasslands and snow-capped mountains.

"The epic march was long and exhausting. We use dance moves to portray the silent moments," says Yang.

"The opera has Tian's trademark style stamped all over it, and audiences can expect a unique experience from the Long March."

Contact the writer at @chinadaily.com.cn

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