Core Points - The article highlights the cultural significance of Guilin during the Anti-Japanese War, showcasing its transformation into a cultural hub with various artistic activities and institutions [1][2][3]. Group 1: Historical Context - Guilin's population surged from 70,000 to over 500,000 during the war, becoming a refuge for those fleeing from conflict [1]. - The city was a target for enemy bombings, yet it became a center for cultural activities, earning the title "Cultural City" [1][2]. Group 2: Cultural Activities - Numerous cultural institutions emerged in Guilin, including nearly 200 bookstores and publishers, over 100 artistic organizations, and more than 10 theaters and cinemas [3]. - The city hosted various cultural events such as lectures, exhibitions, and performances, with a peak during the first Southwest Drama Exhibition in 1944 [3]. Group 3: Educational Initiatives - The "Cave Education" initiative was established by children's groups to educate and entertain during air raids, covering topics like anti-war stories and songs [2]. - The Guangxi Provincial Art Museum, a key cultural site, is set to host events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Southwest Drama Exhibition in 2024 [2]. Group 4: Theatrical Contributions - The first Southwest Drama Exhibition opened on February 15, 1944, with a focus on the contributions of theater to the war effort [4]. - The event brought together over a thousand theater workers from eight provinces to reflect on the achievements of the theatrical movement during the war [4].

Group 1 - The Beijing Opera House is presenting a modern Peking opera titled "Wildfire Spring Breeze Fighting Ancient City" at the Chang'an Grand Theatre from August 1 to 3 and 5 [2] - The National Symphony Orchestra will perform a concert titled "Melody in My Heart" at the National Grand Theatre on August 1 [7] - The National Peking Opera Company will stage the modern Peking opera "Wisdom Takes the Tiger Mountain" at the National Grand Theatre on August 1 and 2 [7] Group 2 - The Chinese Coal Mine Art Troupe will present "The Warm Taste" at the Beijing Poly Theatre from August 1 to 3 [10] - The Beijing People's Art Theatre will perform "Camel Xiangzi" at the Capital Theatre from August 1 to 3 [10] - The Happy Mahua Theatre will stage "This Guy is Not Bad" at the Geological Hall Theatre from August 1 to 3 and 5 to 10 [10] Group 3 - The Northern Kunqu Opera Theatre will perform "Lankeshan" at the Beijing Tianqiao Arts Center on August 2 [14] - The Northern Kunqu Opera Theatre will also present "Changsheng Hall" on August 5 [14] - The Beijing National Orchestra will hold a concert titled "Victory Light" at the Beijing Arts Center on August 23 [7][14] Group 4 - The Italian MIC Company will present the original Italian musical "Divine Comedy" at the Century Theatre from August 1 to 3 [19] - The Shanghai Opera House will perform the opera "Dream of Hua Lu" at the National Grand Theatre on August 9 and 10 [17] - The Yunnan Yang Liping Cultural Communication Co., Ltd. will stage the dance drama "Pingtan Reflection" at the Chaoyang Theatre on August 16 and 17 [17]