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On China’s Broadway, IP Is King — For Now

Contributions from individuals with unique perspectives to share. Hear from everyone, from experts and commentators to those whose voices are often marginalized.

VOICES & OPINION

The pandemic was unusually kind to China’s musical theater scene, but an obsession with established properties threatens the industry’s creativity.

How Streaming Went Mainstream in China

Streaming platforms have gone from marketing niche programs aimed at young Chinese to partnering with CCTV on some of the biggest releases of the year.

Shanghai’s Musical Theater Scene Sputters Back to Life

Lockdowns aside, audience interest is on the rise, but the industry is still searching for a hit.

Weibo’s Doctrine of the Mean

Why is moral condemnation such a popular weapon on the Chinese internet? It starts with the breakdown of the traditional moral order.

How China’s Musicals Lost Their Groove

Chinese musical theater has largely abandoned high-concept shows in favor of shallow engagement with idol culture.

‘Jiang Ziya’ and the Unbearable Lightness of Bourgeois Humanism

The real-life Jiang Ziya was a bold strategist who overthrew a tyrant. His cinematic counterpart mostly mopes — and audiences seem to like it that way.

On China’s ‘Rap for Youth,’ the Medium Is the Message

The mainstreaming of rap is part of a broader effort to reach younger audiences through their favorite genres and hobbies.

‘Sisters’ Act: The Hollow Feminism of China’s Hottest New Show

Between progressive politics and drama, producers will always choose the latter. But that doesn’t mean the show isn’t worth watching.

Where Are All the Chinese Talk Shows?

Programs like “The Daily Show” are popular with Chinese audiences, but that doesn’t mean the country will be producing its own version any time soon.

The Empty Consumerism of China’s ‘Queer Eye’ Clone

What happens when you take the “queer” out of “Queer Eye”?