Meng Jinghui's multi-media stage drama "Don Quixote" will run another round starting January 6, 2010 at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing. [CRI]

The avant-garde Chinese theatrical director Meng Jinghui has polished his play "Don Quixote," and is aspiring to have a share in the profitable New Year's season.

An accurate adaptation of Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra's classic novel, the multi-media stage drama "Don Quixote" premiered in Beijing this September. It will run another round starting January 6, right in the middle of the months-long New Year's season when 50 or more domestic and foreign movies compete to be the best moneymaker.

"But why should the New Year's season be all about blockbuster films?" Meng Jinghui raised the question Wednesday when he warmed up for his drama in Beijing. "A good stage play offers so much more than a commercialized movie. It's obvious which one is more interesting."

Meng is known for his affinity for experimental dramas, but he says "Don Quixote" is not typical of his style. "I made little changes and just tried to present the essence of the novel."

Actor Guo Tao, who embarked on portraying Don Quixote for a 3-D film shortly after the September premiere, says he is in the "Don Quixote mood". "In the play, I have three long monologues. I think I'll do better than in the premiere."

"Don Quixote" will run at the National Center for the Performing Arts from January 6 to 16.