Theatrical performances hit the world

"We selected the content together with our partner ATW, hoping to combine content that showcases the tradition of Chinese stage art and its modern standard, as well as Chinese interpretations of Western classics," says Hiu Man Chan, founder and executive director of UK-China Film Collab.

"We believe that soft power is about demonstrating an open attitude to world arts and culture. The program we selected is truly international," Chan says.

The live theater broadcast has witnessed a phenomenal rise in China since 2015, when ATW Culture first introduced the novel cinematic experience that appeals to both cinema lovers and theatergoers.

By the end of August 2023, the company has collaborated with nearly 30 art institutions including National Theatre Live, the Royal Opera House and Comedie-Francaise, distributing over 250 productions of dramas, operas and dances, covering 69 cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou in Guangdong province, Taipei in Taiwan and Hong Kong, attracting over 800,000 audiences.

On May 21, the company announced its 10th season of live theater screenings, which will feature 36 theatrical productions from countries including France, Russia, Japan and the UK.