The Evolution and Impact of 'One Award' Small Plays in China's Spring Festival Gala
In recent years, China's Spring Festival Gala has continued to be a cultural phenomenon, drawing in millions of viewers each year. The event, which first began airing in 1983, is known for its variety of acts, including singing, dancing, comedy sketches, and more. Among the most highly anticipated segments of the gala are the one-act plays, known as "One Award" small plays, which have been a staple of the program since 1992.
15 February 2024
Over the years, these small plays have become beloved by audiences for their humor and social commentary. The plays often address current events and societal issues in a light-hearted manner, garnering praise from viewers and critics alike. Many of the plays have become iconic, with their memorable one-liners and visual gags still remembered fondly by those who have watched them.
Recently, social media users have been discussing and reminiscing about some of the most popular "One Award" small plays from past galas, sharing their favorite moments and reflecting on the evolution of the segment over the years. Some users have expressed a preference for the older plays, which they feel were more creative and thought-provoking, while others find the newer plays to be just as entertaining.
One standout play from the early years of the "One Award" segment was the 1992 play "I Want to Have a Home," which starred the popular Chinese actor Zhao Benshan. The play, which addressed the issue of urban migration and the challenges faced by rural families, was praised for its authentic portrayal of the struggles faced by many Chinese people at the time.
Another beloved play is the 1998 "Mr. Li and the Postman," which starred Zhao Benshan alongside actress Song Dandan. The play, which satirized the Chinese postal service, was a hit with audiences and is still remembered for its clever use of visual humor and memorable lines.
Other popular plays include the 2006 "Selling Crutches," which poked fun at the commercialization of traditional Chinese medicine, and the 2009 "Rap of the 21st Century," which tackled the issue of cyberbullying in a uniquely comedic way.
In recent years, however, some viewers have expressed concerns that the "One Award" segment may be losing its touch, with the plays becoming more formulaic and less daring in their subject matter. This sentiment was reflected in the 2021 gala's "How to Seize a Seat," which many found to be less memorable than some of its predecessors.
Despite these concerns, the "One Award" segment remains a beloved part of the Spring Festival Gala, and viewers continue to eagerly anticipate the unveiling of each year's new play. Some have proposed that the event could be rotated between different provinces, allowing for a greater variety of voices and perspectives to be showcased on the national stage.
As the most-watched entertainment program in the world, the Spring Festival Gala has a unique ability to bring people together and provide a sense of national unity. The "One Award" segment, with its blend of humor and social commentary, has played a crucial role in the gala's ongoing success, and it is likely that audiences will continue to be entertained and challenged by these iconic small plays for years to come.