A scriptwriting program was launched in Beijing on Tuesday. Fifty-seven original scripts were announced in the program, which is in the incubation process.

Since the beginning of this year, the program has received 408 scripts submitted by 353 scriptwriters from 71 cities around the country. Genres range from traditional Chinese operas to children's drama, from musicals to dance.

Over 40 veteran scriptwriters, theater directors and critics as well as producers joined in the program as judges.

"Original scripts are key to theatrical productions. We have many talented young scriptwriters, whose works need to be supported by performing arts institutions and professional theater artists," says Yang Qianwu, vice-president of the Beijing Theater Association.

"We are very excited to see those scripts, which cover a diversity of themes," Yang adds.

Performing arts troupes, such as the National Centre for the Performing Arts, the Beijing People's Art Theater and the Tianqiao Center for the Performing Arts, will join in the program.