Hands-on experience

The Huichang drama seasons offer students valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to observe theater productions. In addition to volunteering at the festival, Liao encourages students to intern on current productions in the theater village.

Freshman Chen Jiayi, a 19-year-old volunteer at last December's drama season, assisted with tours for guests and also attended several performances.

Chen, who comes from Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, entered the program with little prior knowledge of theater but, after one semester, discovered a passion for stage production. "It opened a whole new world of theater to me," she says.

Liao always takes tools — including a small whiteboard, tapeline, portable chargers, and pens — wherever he goes, a reflection of his professionalism that subtly influences his students.

He has also set alarms for wakeup and lights-out times in the dorms to play classical music, to cultivate a deeper appreciation for beauty among the students.

Play is an essential teaching method. Knowing that his students enjoy gaming, Liao has organized an Honor of Kings tournament modeled after the professional esports competition.

A team of eight students handles everything from the event format to promotional materials. "They even made their own trophies. For the finals, I had them arrange an opening dance, cosplay, a host, commentators, and livestreaming," he says.

The students also designed the tournament's logo and created merchandise. "Through play, I gradually teach them about lighting, stage design, and subtly introduce them to the industry," Liao explains.