Unlike many other arts festivals that primarily feature invited performances, the Shekou Theatre Festival is centered around original creation. The decision to take such a challenging path was made in response to the disruption of international arts and culture exchanges by the pandemic in 2022. During the planning meetings, Crystal, one member of the jury, proposed, "When the borders reopen, what can we offer to the world?" To answer this question, the Shekou Theatre Festival boldly shifted its focus to young creators, initiating the Incubation Projects, assembling a jury, establishing selection criteria, and providing resources and platforms.

Starting from the submission of project proposals by creators, the works undergo a process of selection, nurturing, mentoring, and companionship, resulting in unique and distinctive creations. These works are presented to the public during the Shekou Theatre Festival, where they are further refined through interactions with the audience, evolving into more complete productions. Each year, the festival also invites scholars, experts, media commentators, and program curators from both domestic and international spheres to participate, providing a platform for young creators to be visible and connected with the world.

But the Incubation Projects don't end there. We aspire for the works cultivated at the Shekou Theatre Festival to transcend even further. Beginning in 2024, the festival will invite previously incubated works to return with an "enhanced version" as part of the "Homecoming" programme. With continued nurturing, we anticipate these incubated productions will evolve into a formidable artistic force.