Program continues the beautiful vitality of verse

Since then, she has completed her doctorate and contributed to major national aerospace projects, researching spacecraft and the space environment.

Now in its 10th season on China Central Television, Chinese Poetry Conference hosts poetry lovers aged 6 to 90 from all walks of life, turning verse refined over millennia into an emotional bond that transcends age, profession, and background.

After a decade on air, the program has evolved beyond a test of poetry knowledge. By blending competition with shared cultural appreciation, it has consistently ignited nationwide interest in classical poetry, bringing ancient literature into the contemporary public sphere.

Beyond recitation, the show reactivates the historical, geographical, and cultural worlds behind the verses, deepening the connection between tradition and modern life. Its influence now extends into cultural tourism, transforming poetry from static text into a participatory public experience.

In an era dominated by fragmented reading, why do people still slow down and immerse themselves in poetry? The answer may lie within the contestants. For participants, poetry represents a spiritual pursuit beyond the demands of work and study.

Technology has further reshaped how poetry connects with audiences. Yan Fang, producer and chief director of Chinese Poetry Conference, says this season uses innovative lighting effects and advanced rendering algorithms to create virtual cinematic spaces, with light, air and imagery conveying a vivid sense of movement and life.

On stage, surging waves and a soaring dragon form a striking centerpiece. The dragon's translucent, flowing body is animated using fluid dynamics algorithms, while its skeletal structure, textures and lighting are generated in real time through physical calculations, resulting in seamless, dynamic visuals.