Set against the sweeping transformation of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, The Rising Bay Area is an original musical that brings to life the evolving spirit of journalism amid rapid technological change.
Jointly produced by the Publicity Department of the CPC Shenzhen Municipal Committee and Shenzhen University, and created by the School of Media and Communication (SMC) in collaboration with the Institute of Global Communication Studies, The Rising Bay Area explores how generations of media professionals respond to the shifting landscape of their field. Through a compelling narrative that spans decades, the musical reflects on the tension and eventual convergence between journalistic ideals and the disruptive rise of artificial intelligence.
The Rising Bay Area presents a dialogue between ideals and change. The story centers on Chaofeng Zhang, a senior journalist who has been a leading figure in mainstream media for over four decades. As digital platforms and AI technologies redefine the industry, Chaofeng finds himself gripped by profound uncertainty and self-doubt. With the guidance of his former classmate Yunyun Fei, he begins to reexamine his role within a rapidly evolving media ecosystem.
Standing between past and future, Professor Fan Jian from SMC draws on his humor and keen insight to bridge tradition and innovation. Serving not only as a mentor but also as an intellectual anchor, he navigates tensions between generations while advancing research in digital journalism, ultimately demonstrating that technology and humanistic values can coexist and even thrive together.
Meanwhile, a new generation steps forward. Graduate student Youwei Lin leads a team eager to embrace AI-driven storytelling, yet encounters setbacks in their pursuit of online visibility and engagement. Shaowei Zhou, an intern from Hong Kong, sparks online debate with bold content. Through mentorship, she comes to understand the importance of balancing technological innovation with humanistic values.
Through intertwined narratives spanning multiple timelines, the musical paints a vivid portrait of Shenzhen as it rises from a modest border town to a global metropolis. By blending music, narrative, and shifting temporal perspectives, The Rising Bay Area captures not only the transformation of the media industry, but also the cultural and social evolution of the Greater Bay Area. At its core, it is a tribute to those who remain committed to truth, creativity, and human connection, navigating the tides of change while upholding the ideals that define their profession.
