Theater that unites all abilities
- Chris McMillan
- Dec 4, 2025
- 1 min read
China Daily
3rd December 2025
Theater that unites all abilities
A pan-disability theater troupe turns personal challenges into compelling performances that bridge understanding and compassion.
By MENG WENJIE |
On Dec 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a new song titled "I've Decided to be Born" was released. The track was performed by Chinese pop star Vinida and members from the Leyi (Pleasure) Theater Troupe, a unique theater collective of drama enthusiasts with pan-disability.
"We hope to bridge the worlds of those with and without disabilities through theater, helping more people truly understand what disability means," said Sun Yan, the 37-year-old founder of the troupe. "Disability is not a condition affecting only a few; it is a part of the human experience that many people may face at some point in life."
Sun is often called "Yaoyao", a nickname inspired by yaojing (mystical beings) from Chinese mythology, symbolizing her resilient spirit in the face of adversity.
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