The awards were launched in 1983 when the theatrical field fell into a slump after the destruction of the art world during the "cultural revolution" (1966-76).

To encourage talent, the award was founded by China Dramatists Association, aiming to select new and rising stars in their respective fields.

Two decades later, a total of 435 artists have picked up Plum Blossom awards.

Award winners have come from some 29 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities.

To celebrate the special anniversary, around 400 Plum Blossom Award winners, working in various theatrical fields in China, will gather in Beijing to perform, sponsored by the Ministry of Culture, Beijing Municipality and China Dramatists Association. Three main performances have been lined up.

Thunderstorm, a classical drama written by the late playwright Cao Yu, is to be staged at 7:15 pm, April 2 to 5 in the Capital Theatre.

Dozens of dramatists from several generations will perform in the four-act play. In one performance each day, four main actors will tackle the role of the protagonist. Seven different actresses will take the roles of the two heroines.

The drama dates back to 1930s' China and features tragic stories of love, hate and revenge in two generations of a rich family.

The White Snake, a classic Peking Opera. Playwright Tian Han's version will be staged by award winners, many disciples of master Mei Lanfang. To be performed for three nights at 7:30 pm from April 5 to 7 in the Poly Theatre.

The opera is about the unconventional love between a man and a white snake turned beauty, who fights a stubborn monk, who believes that "demons are demons; humans are humans, and there should not be any relations nor compromises of the two."

A grand variety show Ode to the Plum Blossom is to be performed by around 400 Plum Blossom Award winners at 7:30 pm on April 12 in the Great Hall of the People.

These include highlights of theatrical performances including opera, drama, children's play and Peking Opera.

Tickets: 120 to 800 yuan (US$14.45-96.38)

For more info, call 6559-3786 6559-3815, 6532-2012

(Beijing Weekend March 26, 2003)