The resonant chimes of ancient bells, heavy with the weight of history, echoed through the venue. The curtain rose slowly, revealing a vast, blurry landscape of rivers and mountains on the large screen behind it.
The light from the screen illuminated a dozen or so women in ornate headdresses and wide, flowing robes. Like figures from a painting, they were lying, squatting, or posing in various ways that showcased their feminine charm.
Modern instruments occasionally joined the chime of the bells, creating a layered sound.
A figure, arms outstretched and dressed differently from the others, rose from the stage lift, their back to the audience.
To the classical music, the figure glided forward, trailing a long, long train.
