Grassroots performers chase dreams of stardom

"In those days, film and TV extras in Hengdian were paid 60 yuan ($8) per day, which was not that much, but I received opportunities to perform every now and then, as so many films were being shot in the town," Wang said.

He added that when he first arrived, there were often conflicts between crew members and extras due to the lack of a unified organization for the performers.

In July 2003, the Actors Guild was officially established in Hengdian — the first organization in China dedicated to assisting extras and bridging communications between crew members and performers.

On joining the guild as a special actor, Wang's daily income rose to 400 yuan on average.

In the past 20 years, the guild has registered nearly 130,000 hengpiao as members. However, most of these performers are placed at the bottom end of the film and TV industry chain.

Feng Pu, a native of Fushun, Liaoning province, who is registered with the guild under the number 001, said, "Most of the actors are from grassroots areas," adding that Hengdian provides them with the stage to chase their dreams.

"Hengdian provides equal opportunities and guarantees that everyone who is willing to work hard will be rewarded," Feng said.

At the end of 2003, Feng saw on a newsstand in Beijing that the Actors Guild had been established. He decided to go to Hengdian, where he has since performed in hundreds of film and TV productions. The daily pay of extras such as Feng has since risen from 20 yuan to 120-300 yuan.

Feng said Hengdian World Studios offers cheap hotel-style apartments for those registered with the Actors Guild.

"The guild takes public welfare seriously, as it aims to improve the lives and salaries of its members. Such a platform plays an important role in boosting the confidence of thousands pursuing their dreams," Feng added.