The crowd watch the fire-breathing performance.Photo: Courtesy of Xiao Na

A series of events celebrating the 100th birthday of famous dramatist Gu Xidong were recently held in Xitang, an ancient water town in East China's Zhejiang Province.

Some of the classic works of Gu, such as Birthday Congratulations and Monkey Subdues the White-Bone Demon, have been adapted and staged all over China. During his career, Gu has made outstanding achievements in the field of theater, making important contributions in the fields of folk art and literary theory.

Organizers brought together China's top 10 opera genres, 11 major troupes, and nearly 1,00 artists to jointly perform Gu's classic works. From the release of documentaries to the holding of essay contests, from stage performances by professional actors to screenings of dramas and films, the events put on display the colorful artistic life of the playwright.

Through watching the plays created by Gu, the audience gained a deeper understanding of the breadth and depth of traditional drama culture. In addition, a Shaoxing Opera street dance combined elements of Shaoxing Opera with modern street dance, presenting a unique combination of artistic tradition and modernity. "This Shaoxing Opera street dance is quite interesting!" said Mao Weitao, a vice chairman of the Chinese Theatre Association.

Moreover, the Gu Xidong Theater Art Museum was reopened to the public after undergoing a complete renovation. A statue of the artist was unveiled during the opening ceremony.

Notably, the Zhejiang Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Troupe held a special visit and presented a bouquet of lilies to the statue of Gu to express their respect for him. The troupe also donated some costumes to the art museum in honor of Gu.

Wang Binmei, a vice chairman of the Drama Association of Zhejiang Province and director of the Zhejiang Xiaobaihua Yue Opera Troupe, said: " Gu has left us a precious patrimony of cultural heritage and spiritual wealth. Let us continue to work together to perpetuate and promote the development of the Chinese Yue Opera culture."

The commemoration activities for the 100th birthday of Gu were jointly sponsored by the Chinese Theatre Association and the Zhejiang Provincial Federation of Literary and Art Circles.