The Drama Workshop of School of Performing Arts has actively expanded its off-campus internship opportunities and signed a summer performance contract with Beijing Chenxing Theater Company for the plays Wet Paint and Adventures of a Naughty Kid. This marks the first time that students majoring in Acting (Film and Television) have performed commercial shows outside of the campus for the public.
Adventures of a Naughty Kid revolves around the current hot topics of joyful learning, aesthetic education, and the Double Reduction policy. It tells the story of Lin Xiaoze, a boy tired of boring math lessons, and his sister Lin Xiaoxiao, who live under the pressure of excessive homework. The whole family, along with their pet hamster Harry, is invited on a trip, but the two kids accidentally stumble into a fantastical world while searching for their lost pet hamster. Through various adventures, the children gradually understand the true essence of growth, while their parents feel the longing for a happy childhood deep in their kids’ hearts. Ultimately, the story portrays a heartwarming tale of mutual understanding between the children and their parents. The play focuses on social issues and calls on current parents to face their children's education issues correctly, carrying significant real-life implications.
From October 2022, when the rehearsals officially began, to March 2023, when it received the Excellent Play Award at the Golden Hedgehog College Theater Festival, to the off-campus performance in the summer, each step of the journey owes a debt of gratitude to the hard work of teachers and the enthusiastic efforts of the students. This performance differs from previous shows as it advocates for immersive theater, where the little hamster can interact closely with the audience. Furthermore, the children can get a closer look at the elves and fairylands in our play. Every time the elves and fairies appear on stage, the children in the audience are thrilled, and their feedback is very direct. During the closing scene when the parents express their heartfelt thoughts, it feels like having a conversation and sharing ideas with good friends and parents about how to create a relaxed and moderate learning atmosphere for children, triggering resonance among the parents.
Actors: Zou Lixin, Song Tanci, Wei Jiaye, Yang Jianing, Xue Yuntian, Zhang Yijia, Jiang Zhuoyun, Hu Yiwen, Zhang Xinyu, Zhang Shengye, Li Wenxi
Directors: Hou Moyi, Ji Yingjiao
