Historical play "Beijing Fayuan Temple" opened last Tuesday at the National Theatre Company of China, headlining a performance season focusing on original stage plays produced in China over the decades. 

"Fayuan Temple" brings a famous historical event that took place over a hundred years ago back to life. 

Renowned director Tian Qinxin's take on the "Hundred Days Reform" of the ailing late Qing Dynasty offers a fascinating insight into what some consider a pivotal point in China's history. 

The play recounts the actions of some patriotic reformists at the turn of 19th century, which led to the abdication of the emperor. 

"Beijing Fayuan Temple" is the first of 31 top-quality plays that will shortly be performed in Beijing's theaters. They are the best crop of original plays produced in China over the past few decades.

The performance season will last for three months and is held to commemorate the 110th birthday of the modern Chinese stage play.