Get to know us

Vancouver Chinese Drama Society (former Vancouver Mandarin Drama Society)

Vancouver Chinese Drama Society is a Vancouver-based non-profit performing arts organization dedicated to the creation, production and presentation of Chinese-language theatre in British Columbia. Our artistic roots date back to 2016, with a history of producing classic and contemporary Chinese-language theatre in Vancouver and other Canadian cities. In 2025, Vancouver Chinese Drama Society was formally incorporated as a non-profit society in British Columbia. We create Mandarin-language stage productions with English surtitles, making Chinese theatre accessible to both Chinese-speaking audiences and the broader multicultural community.

Our work includes professional stage productions, original works, children’s theatre, artist development, regular rehearsals, community cultural programming and intergenerational engagement. Our artists and audiences include Chinese-speaking immigrants, Chinese Canadians, youth, seniors and people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Through live theatre, we aim to preserve and reinterpret Chinese theatrical traditions, share immigrant and Chinese-Canadian stories, develop local performing artists, and build meaningful cultural connections across communities.

Our journey began with the classic show "Ruan Lingyu", a critically acclaimed debut that sparked sold-out tours across Vancouver and Toronto. In 2022, VMDS defied the odds during the pandemic to stage "Sunrise" and "Internet Celebrity", injecting fresh energy into Vancouver’s cultural heartbeat. That same year, "Thunderstorm " swept through Vancouver and Victoria, fueled by roaring community support.

2024 marked a milestone: "The Late Chirstoper Bean" became the first Chinese play with English subtitles at Vancouver Playhouse, winning over diverse crowds and setting a new bar for comedy. Looking ahead, 2025 promises two timeless BPAT classics and an original children’s production—all crafted with passion. Open to actors of all ages, we invites you to join its vibrant quest for stage excellence!

Coming November 2026 Grand Production: Sun Yat Sen Stay Tuned~

Our mission

To create and present high-quality Chinese-language theatre that preserves cultural heritage, supports local artists, and connects Chinese-speaking and multicultural communities through accessible live performance. We are committed to artistic excellence, intercultural exchange, youth and senior engagement, and expanding access to Chinese theatre through bilingual presentation and community outreach.

Our vision

To build a sustainable and inclusive Chinese-language theatre organization that contributes meaningfully to British Columbia’s performing arts landscape. We envision a theatre community where Chinese-language artists can develop their practice, younger generations can connect with cultural heritage, older and immigrant audiences can see their experiences reflected on stage, and audiences of all backgrounds can engage with Chinese and Chinese-Canadian stories.

Community, Inclusion & Accessibility

Vancouver Chinese Drama Society serves an intergenerational and culturally diverse community. Our programming engages Chinese-speaking immigrants, Chinese Canadians, youth, seniors and audiences from other cultural backgrounds. We are committed to reducing language and cultural barriers to theatre participation. Selected productions are presented in Mandarin with professional English surtitles, allowing non-Chinese-speaking audiences to experience Chinese-language theatre. Beyond public performances, our activities include artist development, children’s theatre, community outreach, cultural education and opportunities for emerging performers to participate in theatrical creation and performance.

Our team

Our team is a passionate group of artists, directors, actors, and volunteers who are dedicated to bringing Chinese theatrical arts to life in Canada. With a strong commitment to professionalism, creativity, and cultural exchange, we work together to produce high-quality stage performances that inspire and connect diverse audiences. We welcome new talent and believe in growing together through the love of theatre.