Peking Opera often steals the spotlight, but local Chinese operas now have their own awards show. The first "Orchid Awards" ceremony has been held in Zhengzhou city, central China.

Covering categories such as Special Program, Opera TV Series, and Opera Evening Gala, 98 awards were given out. There was also a Special Contribution Award. Held every two years, the "Orchid Awards" are the country's top awards for local operas. They are judged by experts and cover more than 30 local operas.

Japanese play adaptation of Chinese Father

A Japanese adaptation of a Chinese play is showing at Shanghai's Drama Arts Center. The plot of Father revolves around male issues. Two college students sharing a dorm room reflect on the life of their fathers, who have been their role models.

Theatrical fashion show with literary figures

A multimedia play named Looking to Be Dressed Up was recently staged at Shanghai's Grand Theater. Taking the form of a fashion show, the play reveals the human side of wardrobe culture. Incorporating music, dance, and colorful costumes, the play intertwines the love stories of well-known female characters of China's literary classics.

(CCTV.com March 31, 2004)