Chongqing's one-yuan shows promote cultural accessibility

On Tuesday night, the Kaizhou Theater in Chongqing captivated audiences with its annual gala, a showcase of the "One Yuan Theater" initiative that offers shows at a price equaling $0.15 to boost cultural accessibility.

Launched by the local government, the "One Yuan Theater" has presented 147 performances since its inception in June 2025, drawing 180,000 attendees and amassing over 6 million online followers. The initiative spans multiple venues across Kaizhou district, alongside mobile stages that bring dynamic cultural experiences to local communities, according to Hushan Investment Group, the organizer.

Tuesday night's two-hour gala featured a diverse array of performances. The lineup included theatrical acts, traditional Chongqing-style crosstalk, Sichuan Opera, songs and dances, and a Brazilian dancer's breaking routine, all offered as public benefit shows.

One of the standout presentations was Zhi Ka Zhi Ka, an original dance inspired by the traditional Tujia brocade craft. The performance earned the prestigious Qunxing Award last year, marking a first for Kaizhou on the national stage.

According to Zhang Yang, one of the show's directors, more than 70 percent of the performers are locals. The diverse group includes truck drivers, delivery workers, students, and community art groups.

Local tourism has benefited from the initiative. Local figures show a 55 percent increase in visitors to the area's Hanfeng Lake tourism district, contributing 2.93 billion yuan ($431.3 million) to the area's tourism revenue.

Kaizhou is a region steeped in history and cultural heritage. With a permanent population of 1.17 million, it serves as a resettlement area for residents displaced by the Three Gorges project. Its Hanfeng Lake is the largest inland lake in the Three Gorges Reservoir area.

Kaizhou's approach to public cultural services was recognized as a model of grassroots reform in Chongqing for 2025. Just before the gala, a delegation from Pingdingshan, Henan province, visited Kaizhou to sign a strategic cooperation agreement.