"Each of our participants was chosen from the public, and through learning and cultivation, we hope they'll become actors who truly represent the people," Zhang says.
"This show is about nurturing people who are committed to learning. Over the past year of preparation, we've all been working toward this goal. These young people come from all walks of life, united by their love for acting. I hope this training program will help them grow and that they can stay true to their dreams."
In search of ways to fully utilize and promote Wujiang district's cultural and tourism resources, the team is also trying new formats alongside the main reality show.
Young actors with outstanding performances in the show will be selected to participate in an eponymous large-scale stage production, scheduled to premiere at the end of the year.
A spin-off music program called Sound Map will be launched. During the main program's filming, the creative team will be recording sounds in the area, such as that of weaving machines, washing clothes, local musicians singing and playing instruments, that will be incorporated into four original songs centered on Jiangnan culture.
Altogether 150 university students will become observers and recorders during the filming process, free to record video materials and edit them into a one-minute video. At the end of the show, these mini-documentaries will reflect local culture from young people's fresh and diverse perspectives.
Looking ahead, the team plans to develop more cultural merchandise and collaborate with artists or brands. Travel routes will also be designed for audiences who would like to visit sites featured in the show.
