Actress Zhou Dongyu and actors Chen Minghao and Duan Yihong are facing intense criticism following their performances in the stage show Wenchengwhich is part of the 2026 Aranya Theater Festival in Hebei Province, China.
According to QQ, many viewers requested refunds, claiming that the quality of the production was far below expectations. Viewers accused the cast of being unprofessional, failing to memorize lines, relying heavily on teleprompters, and delivering performances that didn’t justify the expensive ticket prices.
The controversial performance
During the show, all three actors reportedly carried scripts on stage and often read their lines hesitantly.
Zhou Dongyu attracted particular criticism for unclear pronunciation and even for misreading some lines. At one point, he reportedly laughed and casually remarked, “I misread that part.” Audience members also complained that his performance lacked emotion, making it difficult to understand the story and characters.
Veteran actors Duan Yihong and Chen Minghao were also seen relying on teleprompters because they had not completely memorized the script. Chen Minghao reportedly said: “I’m the director. I don’t need to memorize lines.”
According to QQ, tickets for four consecutive shows featuring Zhou Dongyu are sold out, with prices ranging from 480 yuan to 880 yuan. However, after the first show, numerous audience members publicly asked for a refund, saying they could not accept this experimental performance style.
Following the backlash, Chen Minghao, who is also the show’s director, explained in media interviews that actors were not required to memorize the script before going on stage. He noted that the production belongs to an experimental theater genre that allows artists to bring scripts as part of a new artistic expression.
However, the public showed little appreciation for the experiment.
Many argue that memorizing lines is a key requirement for actors and that performers should focus on expressing emotions, honing body language and delivering dialogue naturally rather than just reading from a script. Critics described the approach as lacking professionalism and showing insufficient respect for the stage.
Actors’ reliance on teleprompters has also become a major source of criticism. Audience members argued that such devices should only serve as emergency backup tools, not become essential supports during the entire performance.
On Chinese social media platforms, moviegoers expressed anger at paying high prices for tickets only to witness what they described as careless performances and poor acting skills.
Zhou Dongyu’s reputation risks further decline
Among the three performers, Zhou Dongyu became the main target of criticism due to what many spectators described as a careless and indifferent attitude during the performance.
Audience members said that after finishing her lines, Zhou would lean against a table and drink water rather than stay immersed in her character. Some also argued that she appeared disconnected from both the script and the role she was playing.
Several scenes reportedly required the actress to dance, but viewers criticized both the choreography and her performance, describing them as awkward and difficult to understand.
This is not the first time that Zhou Dongyu has been accused of unprofessionalism.
To 2023 Golden Rooster Awardsthe actress was criticized for her behavior during the award ceremony. Some viewers felt it showed insufficient respect towards veteran actor Ge You and relied heavily on prepared notes to read simple introductory remarks.
Critics have also pointed out that Zhou often depends on scripts or teleprompters during public appearances. They claim that she often appears nervous, struggles to react spontaneously and does not speak fluently.
As a result, some members of the public called for entertainment authorities to set stricter professional standards for actors. Some have even suggested sanctions, including a temporary ban from performing, for performers who fail to memorize lines or demonstrate inadequate professional skills.
According to Sina, Zhou Dongyu’s public reputation has reached one of the lowest points in the past five years.
Although she remains the youngest actress to reach the prestigious milestone of the “Three Golden Best Actress”, winning the Best Actress award at the Golden Rooster Awards, Golden Horse AwardsAND Hong Kong Film Awardshis acting ability continues to be questioned by many viewers.
Some critics argue that his achievements have been exaggerated and that he has benefited from fortunate circumstances and industry support rather than exceptional talent.
Since 2023, Zhou Dongyu has experienced a series of disappointing film projects. In 2024 he published only one work, which did not attract significant attention. Reports indicate that since 2025, the actress has not secured any new major projects.
Industry observers believe that Zhou is currently facing a difficult situation. Her youthful appearance limits opportunities to play more mature characters, while her small frame makes it difficult to play glamorous leading women or highly talented professional figures. Critics argue that even roles such as a police officer or lawyer do not fit his image.
At the same time, arthouse films that align more closely with his strengths typically attract smaller audiences and generate lower box office revenue, further complicating his career prospects.
Sources: Znews
