On December 28, 2025, the English drama The Butterfly Lovers (Liang Shanbo and Zhu Yingtai), jointly organized by the USTC Library and the International College, was successfully performed at the East Campus Grand Auditorium. The production brought together Chinese and international students and faculty, reimagining one of China’s most beloved legends through an English-language performance that blended traditional aesthetics with contemporary stagecraft. More than 2,300 audience members joined the event both on site and online.

Preparation for the drama began in June 2025, with open recruitment across the university. Over 90 Chinese and international students and faculty participated, and the final cast featured performers from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds. Under the guidance of instructors from the Library and the International College, the cast engaged in intensive rehearsals and explored traditional Chinese arts such as guqin music, sword dance, and elements of Chinese opera, enriching their understanding of the story’s cultural context.

The production featured a poetic and minimalist stage design and expressive performances that brought the characters vividly to life. While staying true to the original narrative, the adaptation also reflected contemporary themes such as gender equality and personal aspiration, enabling modern audiences to connect with the timeless story in new ways.

More than a theatrical performance, The Butterfly Lovers served as a meaningful platform for intercultural exchange and creative collaboration. By presenting a Chinese classic in English and through a diverse cast, the production demonstrated how the performing arts can bridge cultures, deepen mutual understanding, and inspire global audiences. The USTC Library and the International College will continue to support similar initiatives that combine language learning, cultural exploration, and international engagement.