The drama production Maze in the Night has become the hottest show in Guangzhou, attracting full houses in each of its first four showings. This is an extraordinary achievement for the production, as the cast is made up of amateurs who are mostly white-collar workers.
Apple Hu, one of the actresses, is a bank clerk. To get a thorough understanding of performing, she joined a training class organised by the Guangzhou Repertory Theatre.
She says the biggest benefit she gets from the class is relief from stress in the workplace.
'After several years in my job, I feel like that I am gradually becoming reclusive,' she says. 'But in the workshop, I can communicate with people of different ages and backgrounds, which makes me comfortable and relaxed.'
Rehearsals usually begin at 7pm on Friday nights and often lasts until 1am. Tough as it is, Hu regards it as self-improvement.
'Many would think it a waste of time, but I find happiness in it. I feel a sense of achievement when I witness the production of a drama and other cast members' improvement in acting.'