Connecting Cultures Through Theater: Insights from Director Lai Shengchuan

Theater as a Bridge Across Cultures

The performing arts often serve as a vibrant bridge that connects various cultures. This idea came to life during the recently concluded Huichang Theatre Season 003 held in Huichang county, Jiangxi province, where director Lai Shengchuan led a dynamic showcase. With participation from 15 theater groups from five different nations, the event presented a staggering 370 performances from May 23 to June 2, 2025.

A Celebration of Drama

This year’s festival was not just a celebration of theater but a significant cultural exchange, bringing together artists and audiences from different corners of the globe. Director Lai Shengchuan, a prominent figure in the theatre scene, believes in the transformative power of performance art. In a recent interview with China Daily, he articulated his vision—one that firmly places theater at the heart of international dialogue and cultural sharing.

Director Lai’s involvement goes beyond mere organization; he actively facilitates collaborative projects that often explore diverse societal themes. The highlight of the festival was the premiere of his latest production, staged within the historical confines of the Lai family mansion in Huichang. This venue choice reflects a genuine commitment to honoring tradition while embracing innovation in the arts.

The Essence of Connection

During the interview, Lai spoke about the captivating charm of the theater as a universal language that promotes understanding and empathy. He noted that theater can foster connections, serving as a medium through which various narratives can be expressed and shared among different cultures. This belief resonates with the foundation of the Huichang Theatre Season, aiming to create a platform where stories, regardless of their origins, can find their audience.

He emphasized that art has no borders. With this initiative, Lai aims to strengthen ties not just among theater artists but also among their communities. By showcasing diverse performances, attendees are invited to engage with narratives that might differ greatly from their own lived experiences.

Moreover, the festival doesn't only focus on complete theatrical productions; it also encourages workshops and discussions, allowing local artists to interact with their international counterparts. This aspect of the festival has been instrumental in nurturing talent and giving emerging artists the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Lai holds ambitious plans to expand the Huichang Theatre Season further. He envisions a more inclusive and broader platform that welcomes even more international groups and engages local schools in exchange programs. By facilitating these interactions, Lai hopes to cultivate a new generation of performers and audiences who value and appreciate global artistic expressions.

“As a director, my mission is not just to direct plays but to nurture a cultural dialogue that transcends our immediate environment,” Lai stated passionately during the interview.

Conclusion

The Huichang Theatre Season stands as a testament to the power of performing arts as a connector of communities and cultures. With voices from across the world coming together in Huichang, the event culminates in the realization that theater is more than entertainment; it is a shared human experience that thrives on curiosity, empathy, and collaboration. As Lai Shengchuan continues to champion this artistic endeavor, the theater community looks forward to the future stages that await.