EVEN if you have not read the fantasy novel “Life of Pi” by Canadian author Yann Martel, the movie adaptation of the same name surely rang a bell. Now the London West End play version will be staged in Shenzhen in May, a leg of its Asian tour. The fantasy novel, first released in 2001, follows the 227 days of Indian teenager Pi Patel and a Bengal tiger named Richard Parker as they fight for survival on a lifeboat adrift in the Pacific Ocean. The 16-year-old Pi and the Bengal tiger are the only survivors after a shipwreck. The novel has garnered six major international awards, including the International Booker Prize in the U.K. In November 2012, Chinese American filmmaker Ang Lee adapted the story of Pi for the big silver screen, winning four Oscars at the 85th Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Cenematography. A decade later, the London West End play of the same name premiered, achieving significant acclaim with five Olivier Awards, such as Best Actor in a Leading Role, Best Actor in a Supporting Role and Best Set Design, in the U.K., as well as four Tony Awards in the U.S. Directed by Max Webster, and adapted for the stage by playwright Lolita Chakrabart, the theatrical version of “Life of Pi” explores the themes of survival, faith and the human spirit through a stunning visual and emotional journey. The production is noted for its imaginative use of breathtaking puppetry, created by Finn Caldwell and Nick Barnes, adding a unique element to the storytelling that captivates audiences and immerses them in Pi’s surreal world. With its powerful performances and mesmerizing visuals, “Life of Pi” has become a must-see show at the West End, resonating with audiences of all ages and leaving a lasting impression long after the curtain falls. The production has received widespread acclaim over the past two years during its tours in the U.K. and the U.S. The London West End play will kick off its Asian tour this year, with its Shenzhen leg of performances scheduled from May 1 to 4. Time: 8 p.m. May 1-2; 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. May 3-4 Venue: Bay Opera of Shenzhen, Bao’an District Metro: Line 5 to Baohua Station, Exit B2(Claudia Wei) | 