On January 17, the Chinese stage play "Elephant in the Room" will begin a new round of performances at the People's Arts Experimental Theater in Beijing.

Director Mao Ernan says the elephant in the play stands for the truth. Even though the elephant is huge, if it is hidden in a house for a long period of time, people might forget about it.

The director explains, "The play discusses why people dare not to speak the truth. Sometimes they avoid the truth out of respect for others. For example, you don't have to say that a blind person can't see. Sometimes the truth is pushed aside by power. For example, if a boss says something is right, his or her employees will not say the opposite, and sometimes it is because group psychology is at play."

Stage Play "Elephant in the Room"

When: 7:30 p.m., January 17-28, 2012

Where: People's Arts Experimental Theater, Beijing

Tel: (86 10) 6525 0996

By Lu Ting