One benefit of living in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai is that at any given time, there are many plays to choose from. In return, stage producers in big cities enjoy a steady flow of audiences.
But local art theaters and producers far from the country's cultural centers often experience difficulty promoting their performances. Confined by a small audience base and limited promotional channels, some stage productions sink before swimming.
"Currently the communication between stage producers and stage contractors or investors is not smooth," said Fu Weibo, general manager of the Pioneer Theatre of National Theatre of China (NTC) in Beijing.
"This is crucial during the initial stage of creation, when directors should communicate their ideas to investors."
Showcasing ideas
The situation may be changing, with the emergence of a new platform for showcasing stage performances.
China's first platform for stage productions to show their work was launched in Beijing at the Modern Art Theater in China Millennium Monument, on July 20.
The event was held to give art theaters in China the opportunity to introduce their performances to a larger group of industry insiders.
"The platform is a new concept in China," said Gao Wei, organizer of the project. "We didn't have a platform before to advertise our stage performances, for plays, musicals or dances."
According to Gao, this event is a way for domestic and international art theaters to introduce their performances to different contractors and investors.
"The introduction is completed through performances on stage, video broadcasts and lectures," Gao told the Global Times.
Having been in preparation for two years, the inaugural activity held on July 20 featured nearly 30 art performances from different theaters.
"A week later, a dozen cooperations were formed between art theaters and performance contractors," said Gao. "We are still at the initial stage with the focus centered mainly on activities. In the near future, an online network will be set up to efficiently facilitate communication."
Gao said that a trial version of the online platform will begin running on August 20, and the whole project will be completed in two to three years.
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