Yu Benchang Sells Property at 76 for a Great Script: Worth It

Recently, Yu Benchang, who completed the dubbing for the TV series "Creation of the Gods," shines on the program "Our Home, Our Country" on the central television station.

From the selfless Monk Jigong to the strategic Uncle in Shanghai, Yu Benchang's profound character portrayals have left a lasting impression on the audience, a result of his years of dedication to the stage.

As a stage actor, Yu Benchang has always aspired to be part of a deeply moving theatrical work.

In 2009, at the age of 76, during a meeting of the China Association of Drama Literature, Yu Benchang came across a playwright's script about the master Li Shutong, a pioneer of Chinese drama and renowned musician, art educator, calligrapher, and drama activist. Without hesitation, he bought the script.

Yu Benchang said, "The playwright gave up because he couldn't see the commercial value. I suggested buying the copyright. My intention was not driven by commercial value, but because Master Li Shutong is our predecessor, and I have a responsibility to promote his legacy. This is my honor. I didn't seek investment returns; I sold a property of mine because I believe it's worth it."

As an artist, Yu Benchang considers "Guiding Hearts through Art" as his life creed. He lives by these seven words: "Never forget for a moment, always be prepared."

In Yu Benchang's office area hangs a plaque that reads, "Guiding Hearts through Art." In his eyes, art serves three functions: like milk—nourishing; like plain water—quenching thirst, a basic life necessity; but never as poison—absolutely not as poison.