On the evening of October 26,Zhang Xiaoqian, a theatrical play included in the 2025 “Scientist Story Stage Play Promotion Initiative” launched by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), was performed at the Gymnasium of Xinglin Campus, Central South University.
Tian Hongqi, Member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Chairperson of Hunan Association for Science and Technology; Cheng Bo, Deputy Director of Hunan Provincial Health Commission; Ma Wensheng, Vice Chairperson of Hunan Association for Science and Technology; Chen Shanjun, Chairman of the Hunan Literary Critics Association; and Li Zhihong, Member of the University Party Committee Standing Committee and Vice President of Central South University, attended the event, together with leading officials from the University Publicity Department, Research Department and Xiangya School of Medicine. Over 600 teachers, students, alumni and guests from all walks of life watched the live performance, while the online live stream attracted a total of 4,000 views.
Divided into four acts —Original Aspiration of Xiangya,Torrents of the Times,Devotion to the Nation and Eternal Monument— the play is based on the real-life experiences of the late President Zhang Xiaoqian. Through artistic narration, it vividly depicts his extraordinary life journey: aspiring to “save the nation through medicine” during his studies at Xiangya, devoting himself to the patriotic movement amid the May Fourth Movement, leading Xiangya faculty and students to relocate westward to continue medical education during the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, and dedicating his entire life to China’s medical and healthcare undertakings after the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
The play profoundly demonstrates the noble commitment of generations of Xiangya scholars represented by Zhang Xiaoqian, who upheld medical faith and preserved the torch of medical education amid turbulent historical circumstances. It fully interprets the timeless Xiangya spirit:Integrity, Courage, Diligence and Prudence; Sincerity, Benevolence, Modesty and Humility; Pursuit of Truth and Precision; and Commitment to In-depth, Dedicated Scholarship.
Continuous warm applause from the audience was not only a recognition of the brilliant theatrical performance, but also a sincere tribute to Academician Zhang Xiaoqian and all pioneering Xiangya predecessors. Meticulously polished, the play features rich stage presentation and compelling plot progression. Student and faculty actors of Central South University delivered an exquisite and emotionally charged performance, recounting the legendary life of the great medical pioneer.
The master’s rigorous academic attitude toward medicine — “treading as if on the brink of an abyss and thin ice” — as well as his benevolent spirit and noble medical integrity, constitutes the most touching and inspiring power of the play. It encourages generations of Xiangya practitioners to uphold the solemn oath of “dedication to human health and protection of human lives” with benevolent hearts and exquisite medical skills.
The stage performance has come to an end, yet the spiritual flame endures forever. The successful staging of Zhang Xiaoqianrepresents a heartfelt retrospect of history and a resounding promise made by Xiangya people across time and space. The noble demeanor of the great physician and the exemplary scientist spirit of Zhang Xiaoqian will continue to illuminate the medical journey of countless students, inspiring them to contribute Xiangya wisdom and Central South University’s strength to the advancement of the Healthy China Initiative.
First Reviewer: Li Ruijun
Second Reviewer: Wu Shiming
Final Reviewer: Huang Gengwen
