Lineup announced for festival of contemporary drama

The 11th China Original Drama Invitational Exhibition, co-organized by the National Theatre of China, will run from April to August 2026. It presents 21 original works, including nine large-theater and 12 small-theater productions, reflecting China’s diverse contemporary dramatic arts. Among the large-theater highlights is *Yan Shi Ji*, a National Theatre of China production exploring Lingnan culinary culture over a century, and *When We Two Parted*, a dual-perspective play on women’s resilience. The small-theater segment features experimental works like Huang Ying Studio’s *To Be Continued* and San Tuo Qi Troupe’s *6:3 Pro*, focusing on existential themes and avant-garde physical theater. A new initiative, 'Drama in Schools,' partners with Beijing No. 4 High School and Beijing Yu Cai School to integrate theater into education. Students participate in master classes, watch productions, and develop their own plays, fostering cultural engagement and artistic skills. The festival, now in its 11th year, continues to promote original Chinese drama, blending intellectual depth with visual innovation. It remains a key platform for nurturing talent and connecting audiences with thought-provoking, culturally resonant works.