Classic tale gets new treatment

Feng notes that it is a conventional practice at the theater for the experienced actors to offer the newcomers guidance and instructions.

"In my youth, we were guided by the senior actors, and went through thick and thin on the stage. Now it is our turn to lead the young actors, and give them more opportunities so they can grow," he says.

Feng, 60, was recently announced as the new president of the Beijing People's Art Theatre. He is the fifth president in the theater's 70-year history and the first one to come from an acting background.

"This is the most important turning point in my life. The appointment came as a surprise. To me, this job means more responsibility. I will keep on working hard," Feng says.

He says that, while overseeing the theater company's operation, he will not give up his work onstage.

"I will focus more on the future development of the theater, including nurturing talent and innovating our productions. These are the most important aspects of my future work," he says.