China's leading comedy brand, Mahua Fun Age, signed a letter of intent with France's renowned theme park operator Puy du Fou on Jan. 15 in Beijing, aimed at exploring cross-cultural exchanges, executives revealed to China.org.cn.

Executives from Mahua Fun Age and Puy du Fou, along with representatives from China's performing arts industry and the French Embassy in China, pose for a group photo at the signing ceremony for their strategic cooperation in Beijing, Jan. 15, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Mahua Fun Age]

Zhang Chen, founder and president of Mahua Fun Age, said the two companies plan to promote and adapt Chinese and French theatrical productions while working together on new innovative projects. The initiative also aims to create a shared cultural brand and improve talent development in the industry. "These goals are very ambitious and, in my view, need to be implemented one at a time," he said.

Han Mei, CEO of Mahua Fun Age, explained that they chose Puy du Fou for its expertise in residency shows, which are among the most complex and rewarding forms of theatrical production in the performing arts. "We truly admire their serious dedication to theater, and we hope to explore cross-cultural collaboration with them," she said.

Founded in 2003, Mahua Fun Age is a popular comedy production organization known for its engaging stage performances. Last year, the company produced more than 12,000 shows across China, all of which garnered positive acclaim from audiences.

Since making its foray into film with the unexpected hit "Goodbye Mr. Loser" in 2015, Mahua Fun Age's film division, Fun Age Pictures, has experienced a meteoric rise in popularity. Many of its subsequent films have achieved blockbuster status, including the recent release "Successor," which grossed 3.33 billion yuan ($454 million) in 2024. Notably, actors and directors associated with Mahua Fun Age, such as Shen Teng and Ma Li, have attained remarkable fame and adoration.

Anne Zhao, co-chair of Puy du Fou Asia, praised Mahua Fun Age as a symbol of modern Chinese comedy and a vivid reflection of China's cultural confidence. She noted that while Puy du Fou does not exclusively focus on comedy, it is committed to innovative, emotionally resonant theatrical arts that globally showcase French culture.

Zhao added that the company's grasp of French audiences' appreciation for nuanced humor and emotional depth closely aligns with the innovative and humanistic qualities evident in Mahua Fun Age's works.

"This collaboration is not only a partnership between the two sides but also a deep dialogue between Chinese and French cultures and arts," Zhao said. She expressed a desire to introduce Chinese-style humor to France and other European countries while anticipating more opportunities in the Chinese market.

"By leveraging each other's strengths, we are committed to elevating the theatrical cultures of both countries onto a broader international stage. We look forward to this cooperation opening a new chapter in cultural and artistic exchanges between China and France."

The year 2024 marked the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France. Pan Yan, secretary-general of the China Association of Performing Arts, underscored the robust cultural exchanges between the two nations, noting that mutual respect, understanding, and appreciation are essential to these interactions.

"The strategic cooperation between Mahua Fun Age and Puy du Fou not only underscores the deep cultural exchange and integration between China and France, but it also aligns with the global trend of international cultural collaboration," she stated.

Founded by Philippe de Villiers in 1978, Puy du Fou has become a leading theme park company known for recreating historical scenes and celebrating traditional cultures around the world. Its parks are known for their natural environments and feature spectacular shows, themed hotels, and restaurants, earning recognition as unique artistic destinations.

Puy du Fou debuted its first production in China, SAGA City of Light in Shanghai last September. Covering 46,000 square meters, it offers an immersive theater boasting the world’s largest performance area. After four years of construction and a cost of 670 million yuan ($91.43 million), it is expected to attract up to 1.2 million visitors each year.

Actors Shen Teng and Ma Li express their thoughts and congratulations on the Mahua Fun Age-Puy du Fou partnership during the signing ceremony in Beijing, Jan. 15, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Mahua Fun Age]

Mahua Fun Age megastars Shen Teng and Ma Li attended the ceremony to witness and celebrate the deal. However, Shen raised concerns about cultural nuances that could be lost in translation. He recommended hiring skilled professionals who deeply understand Chinese culture to handle translations for future stage shows in France.

Mahua Fun Age CEO Han Mei echoed this concern, stating, "Comic punchlines are strongly connected to cultural backgrounds." She elaborated: "This task is akin to starting an entirely new venture, and the challenge is as significant as starting from scratch. Both parties are excited and nervous. We hope that as we continue on this path, our shared commitment to refining our creations and honing our craftsmanship will align our ideas."

Han mentioned that discussions are currently ongoing to select the first show for collaborative adaptation in France, adding that the aim is to export comedies that embody a contemporary feel and highlight the distinctive Mahua Fun Age style. She anticipates completing the preparation and development of the show within 10 to 12 months and looks forward to Shen and Ma actively participating.

"We have always been exploring cross-cultural and cross-language exchanges and innovation in comedies," the executive said, adding that the collaboration with Puy du Fou could serve as a model for future partnerships with cultural enterprises from other countries. "We are very open and continue to challenge ourselves to develop new, original, and innovative content. Anything is possible; we would love to open our hearts to communicate and co-create."

Mahua Fun Age is also involved in several international projects designed to promote Chinese culture, including the Macao International Comedy Festival (MICF). Following its inaugural edition last year, the festival is scheduled to return in April. This event is a key component of Mahua Fun Age's efforts to facilitate international cultural exchanges. By bringing together comedy artists and notable works from around the globe, the MICF will provide a joyful celebration for attendees and a broader platform for comedic cultural exchange, enabling international audiences to appreciate the appeal of Chinese comedy.

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