A special gala organized by Taicang Grand Theater was staged on August 8, in celebration of the theater's fourth anniversary and to mark the great contribution the theater has made to Taicang's cultural development.

Among the many actors and actresses performing for the occasion were Zhu Jian, a famous Shanghai opera actor and Shi Xiaming, a promising Kunqu opera actor who has performed in many classic works including The Peony Pavilion and The Peach Blossom Fan.

Local artists Jin E, Lu Ying and Wang Qiang also gave stellar performances at the gala.

Since its inauguration in August 2011, the Taicang Grand Theater has attracted more than 250,000 visitors and schedules at least 80 shows per year. Its average occupancy rate over the four years is in the excess of 60 percent.

Starting from 2013, the theater put on 24 plays each year to benefit the public with an affordable price of 50 yuan ($7.9). The move is backed by the local government.