Chinese dance drama 10,909 is performed at the Wuxi Grand Theatre on Oct 9. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxishilvyouju]

On Oct 9, the 2024 Taihu Art Festival kicked off in style at the Wuxi Grand Theatre in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Audiences were immersed in the Chinese dance drama 10,909, which pays tribute to the researchers of China's new deep-sea manned submersible Fendouzhe, or Striver.

Scenes from the Chinese dance drama 10,909. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxishilvyouju]

The arduous research process, which included data verification, pressure testing, and submersible assembly, was brought vividly to life through exquisite choreography, demonstrating the researchers’ painstaking efforts to push the boundaries of deep-sea technology.

The dance drama has undergone refinements with each performance and is now in its sixth version.

Visitors read posters that introduce the deep-sea manned submersible Fendouzhe at the entrance of the Wuxi Grand Theatre. [Photo/WeChat account: wuxishilvyouju]

The 2024 Taihu Art Festival is set to offer over 120 cultural performances, exhibitions, and other activities for local residents over the following two months, with an impressive lineup of more than 50 stage shows.