Lin writes diabolo themed stage play to popularize the activity

Lin Darui is someone already familiar to many residents of Nanyang, Henan province, but the 70-year-old man might soon become even more of a household name through the production of his second play centered on the game of diabolo.

Diabolo is a skilled activity that involves the balancing and maneuvering of a spinning top using a length of string tied to a pair of wooden sticks. Lin has long been a regional pioneer of the activity and has tried to engage a wider audience range in the form of exercise that some people speculate has a 4,000-year history in the Middle Kingdom.

Lin has taken up pen once again in defense of diabolo and his newest play is named Zhu Yun Hua Xiang, or Happy Days With My Friend Diabolo. The play depicts a group of diabolo enthusiasts inspiring local residents to break out of their comfort zone and try diabolo.

Lin's previous foray into the world of drama came in 2009 with Bi Shui Dan Xin. or Brave Hearts and Luscious Fields, The storyline followed a group of hard working Nanyang residents and was extremely well received by audiences. The play was later adapted to the screen. It is hoped that his new project will prove just as successful in promoting diabolo as an exercise that is beneficial both physically and mentally.

One event that certainly propelled the popularity of diabolo in Nanyang came four years ago at the seventh Chinese National Peasants' Games held in the city. It is worth taking note of the unique nature of these games and their ability to bring lesser known activities into the public spotlight. Diabolo certainly benefitted and the popularity of the activity rose considerably with Nanyang residents young and old getting involved.

Although the exact date for the release of Lin's play is still uncertain, production plans are already underway. One thing is for certain, Lin will continue to promote the virtues of diablolo.