A foundation hoping to uncover upcoming talents in drama direction was launched Saturday in Beijing by the team behind the stage drama Secret Love in Peach Blossom Land.

The drama began its 31st run on Saturday at the Beijing's People's Liberation Army Theatre with all proceeds donated to the foundation for its initial capital.

Lead actor Huang Lei and actress Yuan Quan attended the launch ceremony.

From now on, each ticket sold will contribute one yuan, or 13 US cents, to the fund.

Secret Love in Peach Blossom Land is the Chinese mainland version of a Taiwan classic of the same name.

It was reportedly one of the most successful Chinese stage dramas in 2006 and was seen by over 30,000 audience members since its premiere in Beijing in November.

(CRI.com January 8, 2007)