The Chinese stage play Searching for Doolittle, which was inspired by a true rescue story that took place during the Doolittle Raid of 1942, premiered in Quzhou, Zhejiang province on Nov 15 and 16.

In April 1942, following Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, Lieutenant Colonel James Doolittle of the US Army Air Force led 16 bombers in a raid on Japan. However, fuel shortages forced emergency landings in Zhejiang and nearby provinces, leading to the rescue of 64 crew members by Chinese people.

This act of bravery resulted in severe Japanese reprisals, including the Zhejiang-Jiangxi Campaign, which claimed approximately 250,000 Chinese lives.

Quzhou, located in western Zhejiang, was one of the landing sites. The play highlights the heroic efforts of Quzhou's residents, who, despite language barriers and personal risks, rescued the US airmen. Characters include airfield construction workers, students, and villagers, showcasing the bravery, kindness, and love for peace of the Chinese people.

A scene from the stage play Searching for Doolittle. [Photo/Tide News]

The play's set, featuring "plane debris", and the actors' heartfelt performances transported audiences back to that tense period. The play underscored the deep China-US people-to-people friendship, moving attendees like Quzhou resident Liao Jinrong, whose grandfather helped rescue a Doolittle pilot. This bond continues today, with the pilot's daughter visiting Quzhou in 2024.

The play also highlighted Quzhou's airport expansion efforts during the raid, a lesser-known historical fact. Zheng Weiyong, vice-president of the Quzhou Doolittle Raid Historical Research Association, praised the play's authenticity and artistry.

Following its Quzhou premiere, Searching for Doolittle will tour cities like Beijing and Hangzhou, aiming to share this touching story and foster enduring China-US people-to-people friendship.