The 10th Wuzhen Theatre Festival is set to take place in Wuzhen, Zhejiang Province this year from October 19 to 29.
Wuzhen, located in the north of Zhejiang Province, is an ancient water town with well-preserved 16th-century buildings and stone bridges. The town is famous for its artistic vibe in the traditional Chinese style and serves as the perfect backdrop for theatrical art.
The festival was first founded in 2013, marking this year as its 10th anniversary.
Under the theme of "Arise," the 10th Wuzhen Theatre Festival will take place from Oct 19 to 29 in Wuzhen, Zhejiang province. /Photo provided to CGTN
Under the theme of "Arise, taking off in flight and setting forth on new journeys," the festival's committee hopes to provide an inclusive platform for young theater talents from different cultures across the globe.
The festival consists of theatrical performances, a theater market, outdoor carnivals and a competition for emerging theater artists. It provides a platform for promising actors to be "seen" and has helped fresh blood enter the Chinese theater industry.
The file photo shows a stilt performer interacting with the audience at an outdoor carnival during the Wuzhen Theatre Festival. /Photo provided to CGTN
On May 5, the festival committee announced the three topics for the competition for emerging theater artists: train tickets, world-famous paintings, and horses.
Participants will use these three elements to create their own original theatrical productions that last for no more than 30 minutes. The committee will provide simple stage sets like tables and chairs, and participants will not be allowed to bring their own large stage props.
The file photo shows the competition for emerging theater artists at the Wuzhen Theatre Festival. /Photo provided to CGTN
Submissions are open now until August 20. The top 18 shortlisted plays will be announced on September 24 and will be given the chance to be staged at this year's Wuzhen Theatre Festival.
All entries will have the chance to stage two or three public performances during the festival, and six winners will be selected. The committee will then give awards in two categories – best play and best actor/actress – along with cash prizes.