Core Insights - Joseph Graves, a renowned American playwright, has significantly impacted the theater scene in China since moving there in 2002, blending Western classics with Chinese theatrical traditions [2][3][5]. Group 1: Career Development - Graves founded the Foreign Drama and Film Research Institute at Peking University in 2004, aiming to create professional theatrical works and bridge cultural exchanges between Chinese and Western theater [5]. - Over his tenure at Peking University, Graves directed over 50 professional plays, including many Western classics that premiered in China, and guided more than 40 student productions [6]. Group 2: Educational Impact - The courses designed by Graves are intended to provide students from various disciplines with unique theatrical experiences, enhancing their creativity and engagement in their primary fields of study [6][8]. - Many of Graves' students have pursued careers in theater, becoming professional actors, playwrights, and directors, while others have excelled in diverse fields such as law, medicine, and history [8]. Group 3: Company Initiatives - In 2012, Graves co-founded "Seven Acts of Life," focusing on introducing and producing Chinese versions of classic Western musicals, with notable works including "The Lion King" and "Matilda" [9][10]. - The company has produced numerous musicals, performing in over 50 cities and reaching millions of audiences, while also offering children's musical theater courses [9][10]. Group 4: Future Projects - Graves continues to engage in theater, directing new productions and performing, with upcoming tours for his solo play "A One-Man Shakespeare" and a new work "A One-Man Iliad" set to debut at the International Solo Theater Festival [10][11].