The opening of the 2024 Shenzhen “Pingshan Drama” Carnival heralded the debut of the highly anticipated Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville in the centuries-old Changshou Village in Pingshan District. With a planned area of five hectares, the dramaville is nestled in lush surroundings to the northeast of Maluan Mountain, with the Chi’ao Reservoir to the east.

Pingshan District began renovating the 300-year-old Jiang family residence in Changshou Village in 2020, preserving its original Hakka architectural style while infusing fresh vitality into it. In June 2023, Pingshan District signed a collaborative agreement with Longma Studio to produce outstanding original works, leading to the studio’s establishment at Longma • Changshou Commune in the village. This move has injected theatrical elements and industrial vigor into the area.

The Longma • Changshou Commune, built in the refurbished Jiang family Hakka residence, covers an area of 7,632.14 square meters. The renovations were executed meticulously to maintain the historical allure while creating a dynamic venue for drama performances, cultural exchanges, and artistic facilities.

The Longma • Changshou Commune at Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville. Photos by Cao Zhen unless otherwise stated

Wang Yanxin, the Content Operations Director of Longma Studio, told the press that the natural environment surrounding the dramaville inspires their creative efforts. “The Jiang family settled here about 300 years ago, and many stories have unfolded since then. This environment resonates with our theatrical philosophy and aspirations. When Longma Studio Chairwoman Yao Yi and actor

Zhang Guoli visited here in 2020, they felt a profound connection and an ambiance where creativity would thrive,” said Wang.

Craftsmen adept in traditional mud wall construction skills were invited to imbue the refurbished walls with a retro appeal. The outdoor environmental theater at the drama commune was ingeniously crafted using old walls, creating a space devoid of fixed stages or seats, blurring the boundaries between actors and audience members. This empowers everyone to create and interpret stories in an idyllic setting amid the antiquity of the village, accompanied by the scenic backdrop of Maluan Mountain in the distance.

The Longma • Changshou Commune at Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville.
The cast of "I Love Peach Blossom" in a curtain call at the dramaville Aug. 7. Photo by Liu Xudong

“It’s truly amazing! This beautiful dramaville enriches the culturally vibrant lives of its residents. Here you can see connections formed through the ecology, the transformation of tradition, the arrival of newcomers, and visions for the future,” said a Spanish visitor.

Visitors admire Shaanxi Huaxian shadow puppets.
The drama commune at night. Photo by Liu Xudong

From the traditional Hakka half-moon pond outside the Jiang family residence to the inner houses, vintage charm seamlessly blends with modern elements, where every brick echoes the historical grandeur while inviting future creative endeavors. Architect Zhu Xiaodi has created a stunning net-weaving installation atop the half-moon pond, providing a serene spot for leisurely strolls or moonlit contemplation.

In the drama commune’s exhibition hall, visitors can view an exhibition featuring 400 exquisite Shaanxi Huaxian shadow puppets collected by Zhang Guoli, celebrating the rich legacy of shadow plays and dramas. Another exhibition reviews the 15-year creative journey of Longma Studio, showcasing numerous photos, scripts, props, and costumes.

A library houses an extensive collection of drama-themed books, including contributions from celebrities. In the future, this place will also host book releases and cultural salons.

In addition to the 300-seat theater, which hosts innovative dramas, other businesses within the dramaville are also intertwined with theatrical themes. For example, the Bai Xiao Tang restaurant derives its name from Longma Studio’s

The Bai Xiao Tang restaurant.
A glance at the library.

drama, “Break Gold,” while the inn in the drama commune features antique furnishings and decor collected globally. By integrating these businesses with theatrical elements, the area transcends being merely a tourist spot and evolves into a vibrant drama commune.

The opening ceremony of the Shenzhen "Pingshan Drama" Carnival on Aug. 7 at the dramaville. Photo by Liu Xudong
Canadian comedian Mark Rowswell (or Dashan), Chinese actress Gao Xiaofei and actor Pu Cunxin at the carnival opening. Photo by Liu Xudong

It is planned that one major and two minor theatrical productions will be produced annually at the Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville. Moreover, actor training programs will take place here, and acclaimed artists from home and abroad will be invited to create, exchange, and perform. Through cross-disciplinary collaborations and innovative practices, Pingshan aims to foster the integration and development of drama art with other sectors, offering

audience members more high-quality productions. The dramaville will also host carnivals, forums, conferences and other events, making itself a popular spot among residents and tourists alike.

In the near future, a drama town will be launched around the Maluan Mountain dedicated to drama creation, rehearsal, training, performances, and other cultural services, providing visitors with a unique experience amid picturesque forests and lakes. Construction of environmental theaters in Laowei, Guangbei, and Jingzi villages in Pingshan District is also underway. Preparations for an international theater festival are ongoing, promising more exciting cultural events in the future.

Visitors wander at the Longma • Changshou Commune. Photo by Liu Xudong
Photos depicting past rehearsals in Longma Studio are on display.
A drama lover performs at the outdoor environmental theater.
Drama posters are on display at the Hakka coffee shop.

Pingshan District is committed to establishing itself as a theatrical hub in Shenzhen and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Following years of development, a robust industrial chain for theater has been developed. Notable entities in the district include theater construction company Z&F, theater operator Poly Theater, leading original drama production organization Longma Studio, virtual

studio Shenzhen International Movie City, as well as comprehensive education facilities like Shenzhen Technology University, and 11 performance venues including the Pingshan Theater.

With the opening of Shenzhen Pingshan Changshou Dramaville, Pingshan is set to further advance the integration of theatrical art with urban development. From the multi-functional Pingshan Culture Center, which consists of a wide range of culture services, to the various book rooms scattered throughout the district, and many youth cultural stations in industrial parks, cultural endeavors are playing an important role in Pingshan's high-quality development.

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