Historic village revives with power of theater

Changshou Village in Pingshan District is a Hakka village with a history of nearly 300 years. Now, old enclosed houses in the village have been transformed into the Changshou Dramaville in collaboration with theater groups.

New original plays like “I Love Peach Blossom” are drawing full houses, gradually forming a cultural hub in the drama village, reviving this historic village with the power of theater.

Directed by renowned director and actor Zhang Guoli, a new version of “I Love Peach Blossom” was recently staged at the Changshou Dramaville. Set more than 1,000 years ago, the play delves into the intricacies of human emotions through the poignant relationship between a man and a woman.

A visitor admires shadow puppets at an exhibition at the Changshou Dramaville in Changshou Village. Photos by Xinhua

An aerial drone photo shows a view of the Changshou Dramaville, transformed from old enclosed houses, in Changshou Village. 

A woman visits an exhibition at the Changshou Dramaville in Changshou Village.

People visit the Changshou Dramaville in Changshou Village.

People visit the Changshou Dramaville in Changshou Village.

The cast members of “I Love Peach Blossom” answer the curtain call after the performance at the Changshou Dramaville.

Zhang Guoli (C), veteran Chinese actor and director, talks with visitors at Changshou Dramaville in the Changshou Village, Pingshan District, on Nov. 9.