A scene from The Story of Niu Tianci. [Photo by Zhang Rui/China Daily]

The Story of Niu Tianci revolves around a young man, named Niu Tianci, an abandoned child, who was adopted by a childless couple. Niu's mother wanted him to become a government official, while his father hoped he would take over the family business. As a young man, Niu attended the best school and was an obedient student. But contrary to his parent's wishes, Niu learned very little and struggled with the social environment. He was lost and alone when his parents died. 

An all-male 17-member cast plays both male and female roles in the play. Guo Qilin, a 23-year-old crosstalk, or xiangsheng, performer, makes his stage debut with the role, Niu Tianci. Guo's longtime partner and crosstalk performer Yan Hexiang also makes his stage debut playing the role of Niu's best friend, the personification of a front gate pillar-a role that doesn't exist in Lao She's original novel.

Guo Qilin has built up a sizeable fan base after he made his debut crosstalk performance in 2011. He has expanded his career into movies and TV dramas.