Small theater festival takes to a different kind of stage

Then, Huang, who majored in biochemistry and molecular biology at the China Agricultural University in Beijing, made a bold decision - to become a theater director.

"My original plan after graduation was to further my studies in the United States by working in a biology laboratory, which was recommended by my professor An Xiaorong. But I then told him that I would study theater while working in the laboratory. However, An told me to focus on theater, if that's my career goal," recalls Huang, 40, who was born and raised in Beijing.

After obtaining his bachelor's degree from China Agricultural University, Huang enrolled in studying directing at the Central Academy of Drama with professor Ding Ruru. Huang is now one of the most successful theater directors in China with 44 plays under his belt.

His latest play, Life is Always Sweet, will be premiered in the capital on Aug 8, and it will be staged till Aug 17 at Beijing People's Art Experimental Theatre, a small theater of Beijing People's Art Theatre.

The play, written and directed by Huang, was inspired by his students at Beijing Film Academy, where Huang has been teaching since 2005.