Winners of the 2023 China Federation of Literary and Art Circles Lifetime Achievement Award in Drama. [Photo/WeChat account: htv4htv4]

The 18th China Theatre Festival concluded in Hangzhou on Nov 27, accompanied by the ceremony for the 2023 China Federation of Literary and Art Circles Lifetime Achievement Award in Drama.

This year's festival showcased the richness and diversity of Chinese theatrical arts, attracting theater enthusiasts from across the nation. The extensive lineup included a diverse array of performances, including 34 plays and one specially-invited production, featuring 15 traditional Chinese opera genres, such as Peking Opera, Kunqu Opera, and Yueju Opera, as well as modern forms like drama, musical, and dance.

The prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in Drama recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the development and enrichment of Chinese dramatic arts throughout their careers.

In addition to the performances held in Hangzhou, 12 additional productions were showcased in Wenzhou, a city neighboring Hangzhou which is home to China's oldest opera genre Nanxi, extending the reach of the festival to a broader audience.

The China Theater Festival serves as a platform for artists to showcase their talents, exchange ideas, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Chinese drama. The festival's conclusion marks another chapter in the ongoing celebration of China's theatrical tradition.

A drama show is staged at the closing ceremony. [Photo/WeChat account: htv4htv4]