Brentwood Teen Theater Artistic Director Steve Kinsella believes that an actor’s understanding of the life of the character portrayed deepens the authenticity of a performance – and the company’s current Saturday session group has gone further back in time than any other.

In the course of their research, the students explored the culture of ancient China in preparation for the action-packed stage adaptation of Disney’s “Mulan, ” a heartwarming celebration of culture, honor and a fighting spirit.

The Huns have invaded, and it’s up to the misfit Mulan and her mischievous sidekick Mushu to save the Emperor!

The score features favorites such as “Reflection,” “Honor to Us All” and “I’ll Make a Man out of You” as well as new songs written in the Disney style. The production features original costume designs by Dianne Harroun, plus choreography augmented by martial arts and high-flying acrobatics.

Brentwood Teen Theater’s two-week run of “Mulan” takes place at the Theater at Edna Hill Middle School, 160 Birch St. Brentwood. The curtain goes up Fridays and Saturdays, May 11, 12, 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 19 at 2 p.m. General admission is $12; $10 for students and seniors 62 and over; and special group pricing is available in advance. To reserve priority seating, visit www.brentwoodteentheater.com or call 925-516-9009.