The State Council Information Office recently revealed plans for the 80th anniversary commemoration of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

The plans include a lineup of new artistic works. Of particular note is the upcoming stage drama themed on the Doolittle Raid's rescue stories.

In 1942, after a daring bombing raid on Japan, 75 pilots from the United States, led by Lieutenant Colonel James Doolittle, were forced to bail out or crash-land in China after running out of fuel. The Chinese people rescued 64 of these airmen, including those who recuperated in Quzhou, Zhejiang province.

The Memorial Hall to the Doolittle Raid in Quzhou sees descendants of rescued Doolittle Raiders paying tribute to the courageous Chinese people, nurturing the enduring China-US friendship forged in the crucible of war.

Some of Doolittle Raiders' descendants and villagers take a photo in Wangcun village, Quzhou. [Photo/Tide News]

2025 marks the 80th anniversary of victory in the aforementioned wars and the 83rd anniversary of the Doolittle Raid Rescue. The stage drama will be a collaborative effort between Quzhou authorities and the China Coal Mine Art Troupe.

By spotlighting the Doolittle Raid's rescue stories, the drama aims to harmonize history with reality, showing genuine kindness and love for peace of the Chinese people.

The production is progressing smoothly, with script revisions almost completed. Script readings are set for early August, which will be followed by full rehearsals in Quzhou and the premiere at the Quzhou Poly Grand Theatre in early October.