Expat vlogger explores Pingshan's drama vibes

Video and photos by Xu Shuntian

In the bustling city, there lies a carefully “pinned” treasure spot — Pingshan. It is not only a sparkling gem on the map of Shenzhen but also a vivid testament to the interplay of modern innovation and diverse cultures. The “PIN Pingshan” series draws inspiration from location pins on maps, focusing the lens on every corner of Pingshan. Through the firsthand exploration of multiple expat vloggers, it captures the unique charm and limitless possibilities of this vibrant land.

Marina Vilchinskaia at the Pingshan Station cross-regional urban promotion space in Gangxia North Metro Station.

On the vibrant and innovative land of Pingshan, a profound exploration of theatrical arts is unfolding. Recently, Marina Vilchinskaia, a Russian vlogger, ventured into the world of drama in Pingshan, documenting its rich drama vibes and the unique charm of East-West cultural fusion.

Pingshan craftsmanship

As a leading company in theater construction, Z&F has contributed to 70% of China’s high-end large theaters, including renowned venues like the Guangzhou Opera House, Qingdao Grand Theater, and Zhuhai Grand Theater. This positions them as a vital promoter of Chinese theatrical culture.

Marina Vilchinskaia visits the exhibition center of Z&F in Pingshan.

At the company’s exhibition center and theater showroom, Vilchinskaia was exposed to a plethora of awarded project certificates and immersive experiences related to acoustic design, stage equipment, and sound lighting, allowing her to witness the exquisite craftsmanship of theater construction firsthand. She developed a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage and spirit of innovation embodied by each theater.

Companies like Z&F are driving the high-quality development of Pingshan District’s cultural industry. By creating a cluster of internationally influential theaters, Pingshan is steadily establishing a diversified cultural ecosystem that integrates performing arts, exhibitions, education, and tourism. This provides citizens with rich cultural experiences while injecting significant cultural momentum into the city’s transformation and development.

Home for drama fans

In Changshou Village, nestled at the foot of Maluan Mountain in Pingshan District’s Jiangling community, a picturesque village surrounded by green mountains has embarked on a new chapter. This Hakka village, founded during the Emperor Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty and steeped in historical and folkloric charm, officially opened to the public Aug. 7 as the Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville.

Collaborating with the prominent domestic theater organization Longma Studio, Pingshan District preserved the original ecology of the Hakka village while renovating the old walled houses in a Lingnan architectural style. These revitalized structures harmoniously blend with the village, mountains, and local industries, now a spiritual home for drama lovers.

Marina Vilchinskaia participates in a table read event in the Longma Studio Drama Library at the Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville. 

Here, Vilchinskaia participated in a table read event of a classic script by Longma Studio. The humor and profound social insights in the lines left a lasting impression on her, allowing her to appreciate the rich legacy and unique charm of Chinese drama. She remarked, “I believe drama is an excellent way to express oneself. The opening of the Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville excites me, and I’m thrilled to be part of this reading event.”

Shadow play props on display at the Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville.

Additionally, the shadow play art exhibition at the Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville impressed Vilchinskaia: “I had never seen this form of art before. These vivid little characters come to life through light and shadow, animated by the artist’s craftsmanship, which is truly incredible.”

The opening of Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville is not only a milestone in the cultural development of Pingshan District but also a testament to the inheritance and innovation of outstanding traditional Chinese culture. Its unique allure draws drama enthusiasts and cultural explorers from all over the world, collectively writing a splendid chapter that intertwines Hakka traditions with drama dreams.

Classic adaptation

As night fell, the highlight of the journey arrived. Vilchinskaia arrived at the Pingshan Theater to watch the Chinese drama “The Shawshank Redemption.”

Marina Vilchinskaia speaks highly of the Chinese drama “The Shawshank Redemption.”

The production and premiere of this drama took place in Pingshan, featuring 11 expat actors from eight countries performing in Chinese. This cross-border collaboration not only showcases Pingshan District’s openness and inclusivity in cultural exchanges but also provides a new viewing experience for the audience. Vilchinskaia praised, “Although my Chinese isn’t sufficient to understand all the lines, the performances were absolutely brilliant.”

The production of the Chinese version of “The Shawshank Redemption” is an important initiative for Pingshan District in fostering cultural innovation and building its cultural brand. The successful performance enriches the cultural fabric of Pingshan and enhances its recognition and influence in the field of drama.

This journey allowed the Russian vlogger to personally experience Pingshan’s rich drama vibes while deeply appreciating the fusion and collision of Eastern and Western cultures in theatrical arts. Pingshan, with its unique cultural charm, is drawing more domestic and international friends to explore, engage, and resonate with its offerings. Here, drama is not only an expression of art but also a cultural bridge that connects the past with the future and the East with the West.