Back on stage: A well-loved play

Apart from Chang, the production features Hsiao Ai, a veteran theater actress who had portrayed the role of Yun in 1991, as well as theater practitioners from Taiwan and young performers from Theatre Above, founded by Lai in 2015.

"Hsiao sheds tears during every read-through. She understands the character so well, as if she and the character are one and the same. I find this truly remarkable," Chang says.

"When we're backstage, we are on opposite sides of the stage, and I see what she's doing. She always arrives early and stands there quietly, engrossed in the character. I think this is what goes to make a great performer."

Apart from the many stage versions of Secret Love in Peach Blossom Land, the story has also been adapted for cinema in 1992, with renowned actress Brigitte Lin Ching-hsia as the female lead.

For the new production, Lin and Ismene Ting, a theater director and actress who also starred in the film, have written some of the letters exchanged by the protagonists.