Participants gather and pose for a photo during the 2025 National Privately-Run Performing Arts Troupe Exchange and Exhibition. [Photo/Tide News]

The 2025 National Privately Run Performing Arts Troupe Exchange and Exhibition opened at four iconic locations — Huangyan Grottoes, Jiufeng Park, Wudong Bridge, and Jiufeng Ancient Houses — in Huangyan district, Taizhou, Zhejiang province, on July 16.

The event includes performances of signature opera pieces, opera excerpts, seminars, and folk-themed markets — offering a great platform for nationwide exchanges.

The event features 10 selected performances of signature opera pieces, including Pingju Opera, Yuju Opera, and Huangmei Opera.

To bring opera closer to the public, performances are staged in parks, squares, and tourist sites. "Performing on the street is our norm. It keeps us rooted in the community," said He Qijiao, head of the Qiongju Opera Troupe from Hainan.

Taizhou, a stronghold for privately-run performing arts in Zhejiang, hosts the national event for the third time. Yang Bixia from the Haixia Minju Opera Troupe returned with a full production since first participating in 2023 with excerpts.

Meanwhile, the immersive opera highlights at Jiufeng Ancient Houses feature 27 outstanding privately-run troupes across China, spanning 21 opera genres. Blending traditional architecture with holographic technology, the venue offers a modern and captivating viewing experience.

In addition, a concurrent seminar on privately-run theater development has gathered experts and troupe leaders to discuss talent cultivation, management, and artistic innovation.