In keeping with the spirit of the story, Albarn decided not to have the show translated into English and instead focused on the music.
Damon Albarrn, Director said "I find it kind of easier to not know exactly what's going on. I don't like complete clarity because if I have complete clarity I have to have an opinion on everything and being a highly opinionated individual, the less I kind of understand the better so in a way it's easier because if it had been in English I would have lots of problems with the translation. I didn't like the English translation at all, and I just thought it's better to stick with the original."
Chen Shizheng added that while the story of the Monkey King is ancient, the message of the book still rings true today.
Chen Shizheng said "Enlightenment. Wisdom, I think that's the most important Monkey's journey from rebellious to understanding and personal responsibility. I think that's something we go through our personal life and I think it's very important in this stage of the world and I think you're searching for harmony, the self, we call containment in Chinese philosophy. I think it's whether you understand yourself and whether you understand your place in this world."
"Monkey: Journey to the West" plays in London until December 5th.
