Representatives from the International Theatre Institute recently conducted a three-day visit to the Dream Langfang Theater Park in Langfang, Hebei province, as part of discussions on organizing events in China for 2024 World Theater Day. The delegation included Tobias Biancone, the director general of ITI, Chen Zhongwen, the deputy director general of ITI, and Lemi Ponifasio, ITI's World Theatre ambassador.
During their visit, the delegation explored the Unique Dream of Red Mansion theater complex, a facility centered around the literary masterpiece, A Dream of Red Mansions. It includes four large and eight small indoor theaters, along with outdoor theaters.
Expressing his admiration for the complex, Ponifasio remarked that the visionary minds behind it have done a good job. Essentially, the theater embodies the concept of seeking out the most beautiful things and presenting them to the people. "I believe they've got it," he said.
"The development of the arts requires patience, unlike the immediacy of fast food or a supermarket experience. Instead, it represents a dedicated effort to support lives and cultivate a positive perspective on life."
Guo Yu, vice-president of Ennova Holding Co Ltd, a Langfang-based cultural product and service provider responsible for the park, said that he looks forward to in-depth discussions with ITI in order to create platforms for a variety of theatrical forms and artists through events such as the 2024 World Theater Day and the Dream Langfang International Theater Festival.
"Through more imaginative and creative activities, we aspire to enhance the accessibility of theatrical arts to the public, encouraging more participation, especially from the youth, in the world of theater," said Guo.
Chen added that ITI will promote collaborations with Ennova in the areas of international theatrical exchange, arts education and the promotion of traditional performing arts.
