Okay, here is an English plot summary for the opera The Taking of Tiger Mountain by Fei Hong (智取威虎山):
Plot Summary:
Set during the Chinese Civil War shortly after Japan's defeat in World War II, the story revolves around the heroic efforts of a small team of Communist guerrillas operating in the rugged, snow-covered mountains of Northeast China.
Background:
The bandits, led by the ruthless and cruel Tiger Chief (座山雕), hold sway over the region, controlling the local village and demanding tribute. The Communist platoon, commanded by Captain Fei Hong (杨子荣), is tasked with eliminating this threat and liberating the area. The Tiger Chief is feared because his bandits are well-armed,狡猾 (xiǎo huá cunning), and deeply entrenched in the mountain terrain.
The Plan:
Fei Hong devises a plan to infiltrate the enemy's stronghold. He decides to disguise himself to gain access. The plan involves several key steps:
1. Infiltration: Fei Hong disguises himself as a beggar named "Lao Jin" (老金). He carries a fake identity card for a deceased officer named "Shi Taigong" (史铁耕).
2. Meeting the Counter-Intelligence Officer: He successfully enters the village and meets the bandits' counter-intelligence officer, Xiao Wang (王少剑), who is in charge of welcoming new "visitors."
3. Impressing Xiao Wang: Fei Hong must convince Xiao Wang and the other bandits that he is indeed the famous officer Shi Taigong, returning from a mission. He uses his knowledge, quick thinking, and a carefully prepared performance (including singing) to pass inspection.
4. Gaining Trust: Through a combination of intelligence gathering, performing traditional opera songs (which impresses the bandits), and demonstrating his "value," Fei Hong slowly gains the trust of Xiao Wang and eventually the Tiger Chief himself.
The Betrayal and Capture:
While Fei Hong is successfully integrated, his cover is nearly blown when the real Shi Taigong suddenly appears. This creates confusion. To save himself and the mission, Fei Hong must act quickly. He uses his acting skills to bluff his way through the situation, eventually leading the bandits to believe the real Shi Taigong is a traitor. In the ensuing chaos, Fei Hong identifies and captures the key bandit figures, including Xiao Wang and the Tiger Chief's wife.
The Climax:
Fei Hong confronts the Tiger Chief in a dramatic final showdown. Despite the Chief's attempts to kill him, Fei Hong ultimately defeats him. However, the Tiger Chief is saved at the last moment by the arrival of reinforcements from the main Communist army, who have been tracking the bandits.
Resolution:
The opera ends with the successful liberation of the village from the bandits' control. The Tiger Chief and his main lieutenants are captured or killed. Fei Hong is celebrated as a hero for his bravery, intelligence, and skillful infiltration and deception. The Communist forces gain a significant victory in the mountain region.
Key Themes:
Intelligence and Strategy: The importance of clever planning and psychological warfare.
Courage and Bravery: Fei Hong's willingness to risk his life in disguise.
Deception and Performance: The use of acting and false identities as a weapon.
Loyalty and Betrayal: Themes explored through the characters' interactions.
Victory of Good over Evil: The ultimate triumph of the Communist forces.
This plot summary captures the main events and themes of the famous opera The Taking of Tiger Mountain by Fei Hong.
