Zhao Benshan (L) and Xiao Shenyang [CRI]

Comedian Zhao Benshan, known for his hilarious shtick in short sketches, has announced in Beijing he's moving into the music industry. The multi-talented artist told the press on Tuesday, he'll collaborate with big record labels to create a pop band.

Zhao Benshan's launched a national campaign, a talent quest to find the twenty best young artists. The winning ten boys and ten girls will be professionally trained overseas, in South Korea, Japan and the United States. Then they'll be offered singing contracts with Zhao's record label.

Zhao Benshan made a name for himself at the CCTV Spring Festival evening gala, for his earthy yet ingenious style of performing. Over the years he has appeared in a string of productions on both the big and small screens, and gained a solid fan base.

Revealing his plans for the new year, Zhao says he'll work on airing the third season of TV series "Farmers' Love," which he directs and supervises. And focus on his new venture in the music industry.

Zhao says he's not sure if he'll collaborate with his protege Xiao Shenyang again on the CCTV studio stage. Xiao, a supernova of folk opera in northeast China, gained unexpected fame from an appearance at 2009 Spring Festival Gala.

Regardless of whether they work together again, Zhao says he's confidant Xiao Shenyang will have a bright future, so long as he stays true to his folk opera style.

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