Hong Kong actress Irene Wan attends a press conference in Shanghai, promoting the upcoming drama "A Dream of Red Mansions" on Friday, Oct. 12, 2007. (Photo: yule.sohu.com)

An all-star dramatic adaptation of the 18th Century Chinese literature masterpiece "A Dream of Red Mansions" is underway in Shanghai, aiming to provide a panorama of the classic novel.

The production crew and cast gathered on Friday for a press conference to introduce the new endeavor.

The 30-strong cast are a mixed bag of acting talents. Among the attendees were veteran Chinese mainland actresses Siqin Gaowa and Wang Ji, as well as Taiwan singer and actress Pace Wu and Hong Kong film actress Irene Wan.

Details on who will play which role are yet to be announced.

Friday's press conference also unveiled the drama's costume designs.

The drama will premiere at Shanghai Hongkou Soccer Stadium on November 10, as part of the 9th Shanghai International Arts Festival.

Fashion models display costume designs for the upcoming drama "A Dream of Red Mansions" in Shanghai on Friday, Oct. 12, 2007. (Photo: yule.sohu.com)

Director Chen Xinyi said the word panorama not only entails a full view of the classical story, but also a visual panorama for audiences at the circular stadium.

Many cast members expressed their excitement to work in such a unique production.

At the same time, a much-touted television remake of the novel is still suffering cast selection difficulties.

This classical novel, written by Cao Xueqin, is one of the most favored plays for TV productions. Chinese audiences are most familiar with a 1987 version.

(CRI.cn October 14, 2007)