(Source:CGTN)
Classic literatures shared by celebrities and ordinary people, who also come with their personal life stories. The first season has 12 episodes, with each episode featuring one theme. Guests, either well-known, or unknown, each tell a story as well as presenting a piece of literature, inspired by the theme.
"In each show, we will present a fanscinating story about someone, and then we'll find a piece of literature that matches it. The emotion thread comes along." said Tian Mei, director of "Readers".
Literature of course serves as the backbone of the show, although viewers occasionally also get to enjoy piano performances and (Chinese?) operas as well. It's a one of a kind TV program amidst the numerous variety and reality TV shows.
"Now we have too many shows that serve to purely entertain. We focus to much on stars' personal lives. And rarely do we have serious cultural shows." said Zhu Dongli, editor-in-chief.
Experts claim China's entertainment shows are mostly copied from overseas, and original ones are rare. And this is where "Readers" stands out. It combines the reading of beautiful literature with compelling stories of everyday lives.
"We welcome TV shows like this that are based on traditional values and our country's own cultural DNA." said Zhong Chengxiang, a critic.
To widen the show's appeal, the crew have set up "reading pavilions" in major cities like Beijing, Hangzhou and Guangzhou, to invite more people to showcase their talent.
There are always people out there that deserve attention and respect from us, and whose stories are touching worth sharing. And, there's nothing in the world that are more powerful than words. We hope this show could re-ignite people's passion for literature.
The show has no shortage of star power. Well-known actor Pu Cunxin, actress Jiang Wenli, pianist Li Yundi, best seller author Zheng Yuanjie, and entreprenur Liu Chuanzhi will share their stories and love for literature with viewers. The show is broadcast on Saturday and Sunday at eight pm on CCTV-1 and CCTV-3.
