Lemi Ponifasio, World Theatre Ambassador for the International Theatre Institute – UNESCO, has called for a stronger global presence of Chinese artists in contemporary theater. Speaking at the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing, Ponifasio shared his vision for enhanced cultural collaboration with China.
Ponifasio recently worked with members of the Yi ethnic group in Sichuan Province, taking them on a global tour that showcased their unique cultural heritage. “While China is a political and economic powerhouse, its voice in contemporary theater is still underrepresented,” he noted. “Chinese artists in the international arena are missing.”
He emphasized the importance of China stepping forward with greater cultural confidence. “It’s time for China to take a leading role in shaping global cultural dialogue,” Ponifasio urged. “By sharing its rich traditions and perspectives, China can contribute significantly to the world’s artistic landscape.”
