Core Viewpoint - The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) successfully launched the "Second Scene" initiative, which combines advanced technology with live performances, allowing audiences across China and even in Malaysia to experience the operatic production "The Merry Widow" in real-time [3][4]. Group 1: Event Overview - The light opera "The Merry Widow" premiered on December 20, featuring a blend of classic melodies and advanced technology, including 4K ultra-high-definition and 5.1 surround sound [1][3]. - The "Second Scene" initiative has successfully live-streamed various performances since April 2025, reaching over 80,000 audience members at a low ticket price [3][4]. Group 2: Technological Integration - The "Second Scene" initiative is noted for its extensive collaboration, involving 60 partner organizations, making it the most comprehensive live-streaming event in China to date [3][4]. - The initiative aims to merge stage art with cutting-edge technology, enhancing accessibility to high-quality performances for audiences in remote areas [3][4]. Group 3: Artistic Collaboration - The production of "The Merry Widow" features a high-caliber creative team, including NCPA's music director Lü Jia and renowned opera director Hugo de Ana, showcasing the excellence of domestic productions [4]. - The performance includes contributions from various artistic groups, including the NCPA opera and drama troupes, choir, orchestra, and the Liaoning Ballet [4]. Group 4: Audience Engagement - The live-streaming event includes a guided commentary segment, where hosts and performers discuss the production's highlights, enhancing audience understanding and appreciation [5]. - Performers share insights on the challenges of balancing dance and singing, as well as adapting to different languages used in the opera [5]. Group 5: Support and Collaboration - The live broadcast is organized by the NCPA, with support from various organizations, including China Film Group Corporation and BOE Technology Group, as part of the "Great Drama in Beijing" 2025 exhibition season [7].

Core Viewpoint - The exploration of "Second Scene" in performing arts is gaining traction, utilizing advanced technologies to broadcast high-quality performances to a wider audience across various venues [1][4]. Group 1: Technological Integration - The National Grand Theatre's opera "The Marriage of Figaro" was live-streamed in nearly 100 cinemas across 30 cities using "4K ultra-high definition + 5.1 surround sound" technology [2]. - The National Grand Theatre's technical team developed a proprietary ultra-high-definition live streaming system, ensuring audio-visual synchronization through over 60 independent channels [2]. - The "Second Scene" initiative is not merely a replication of live performances but aims to create new artistic forms and enhance audience experiences, making every seat feel like a VIP experience [2][5]. Group 2: Accessibility and Audience Engagement - The "Second Scene" allows more people to access and appreciate high-quality cultural resources, addressing the demand for affordable and accessible art experiences [4]. - Ticket prices for the live broadcast of "The Marriage of Figaro" ranged from 30 to 80 yuan, with free viewing options available in certain regions [4]. - The initiative includes unique guided tours that provide in-depth insights into the performances, transforming the viewing experience into an educational opportunity [2][5]. Group 3: Government and Institutional Support - The rise of the "Second Scene" is supported by government initiatives, such as the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Radio and Television's action plan to promote ultra-high-definition technology [3]. - The National Theatre has successfully implemented various high-tech live broadcasts, including the 8K + 5G technology for the play "Iron Flow East" and the upcoming "The Call of Dunhuang" [3]. - Collaboration among 35 theatres to form a "Second Scene" cooperative group aims to enhance resource sharing, technical standards, and business models [4]. Group 4: Challenges and Future Directions - The "Second Scene" faces challenges in integrating art and technology, balancing low ticket prices with high technical investments, and addressing uneven development of audiovisual facilities [5][6]. - Suggestions for improvement include capturing audience reactions in real-time and utilizing social media for discussions to enhance the live experience [6]. - Continuous exploration of institutional innovation is necessary to lower barriers related to funding, copyright, and infrastructure, while balancing commercial profitability with social welfare [6].