WIIAD? ### Chapter 34: Rehearsal


At the end of October, Qi Lin and his team arrived in Hunan Province to participate in a variety show on Mango TV. This time, Qi Lin was a guest star, and the show was straightforward, requiring only three days of recording.


The Mango TV office building was impressive and exuded high status. During their walk from the car, they saw many familiar faces often seen on television. Wang Xiaohua, experienced and confident, led Qi Lin inside, giving him advice along the way.


"Even though the company is preparing a web series for you, getting on television is essential to be truly recognized by the audience. Just like the rapid increase in fans you saw after recording 'Run Brother.' Recording variety shows alone isn't enough; I plan to get you into a TV drama next year."


Qi Lin, not fully understanding, nodded repeatedly. As they conversed, they entered the TV station. The director was already waiting for them at the entrance and warmly greeted them.


"Hahaha, Ms. Wang, it's been a while! This must be your new talent, right? Truly promising and talented!"


The director was a chubby middle-aged man, around forty years old, with early baldness. Despite his unremarkable appearance, he had successfully created two highly-rated variety shows. One of them was "Born to Act," which Qi Lin was participating in.


The show featured three renowned judges in the industry. Just having these three on the show was a significant achievement. The judges were:


1. Liu Tianwang from Hong Kong.

2. Director Jiang Dongsheng.

3. International actress Zhang.


Each of these figures was a big name in the industry, especially the first judge. In the entertainment world, only a handful of people have maintained long-lasting fame, and Liu Tianwang was one of the brightest stars. The second judge was a top director who had worked with countless superstars. The third judge, despite some recent reputation issues, had won numerous international awards and had been nominated for an Oscar five times. She was also named one of the top ten Chinese people to know globally.


Mango TV had spent a lot to get these judges, which was why Wang Xiaohua accepted the low-paying variety show offer. It was a great opportunity for Qi Lin to gain exposure among industry giants and on a popular show. This spot was highly coveted, with people even willing to pay to be on the show. Thanks to Wang Xiaohua's connections, Qi Lin secured the position.


After some pleasantries, the director led Qi Lin to a rehearsal room. The show's rules were simple. Before the competition, contestants drew lots to select a scene from one of the judges' numerous works and then played assigned roles. The judges would score their performances, and the highest score would win. As a guest star, Qi Lin played minor roles, essentially supporting the contestants. For this rehearsal, two contestants drew a scene from Liu Tianwang's "Infernal Affairs." One played Liu Jianming, the other played Chen Yongren, and Qi Lin played the corrupt cop Big B, who kills Chen Yongren and is subsequently killed by Liu Jianming.


After some introductions, the director and Wang Xiaohua left, giving the three time to rehearse. The acting coach, Mr. Liu, was a kind and approachable man.


After the introductions, Coach Liu asked, "Qi Lin, have you seen 'Infernal Affairs'?"


"Yes, I watched the rooftop scene on the plane recently," Qi Lin replied.


"Perfect. You three should rehearse so I can see your chemistry," Coach Liu said.


Dou Yandong and Shi Fang agreed, took a deep breath, and quickly got into character. Qi Lin stood aside, waiting for his cue.


"You guys are funny, always meeting on rooftops…"


"I'm not like you, I'm above board!"


Watching them act, Qi Lin felt something was off but couldn't pinpoint it. He glanced at Coach Liu, who still smiled but with a hint of contemplation. Soon, it was time for Qi Lin's character, Big B, to enter. He picked up a pen as a 'gun,' holding it with both hands and slightly lowering his head.


"Police! Drop your gun!"


Coach Liu's eyes lit up, focusing on Qi Lin. As Qi Lin continued, Coach Liu's interest grew. After the scene, Coach Liu suddenly asked, "Which university did you graduate from? Beijing Film Academy, Shanghai Theatre Academy, or Central Academy of Drama?"


Qi Lin thought the question was for Dou Yandong and Shi Fang until he realized everyone was looking at him.


"Uh, none of them. I graduated from Beijing Sports University."


"…"


"…"


"…"


After a few seconds of silence, Coach Liu sighed deeply. "What a waste of talent!"


Qi Lin felt embarrassed and scratched his head out of habit. Suddenly, Coach Liu said, "Show me your portrayal of Liu Jianming."


Both Qi Lin and Dou Yandong were taken aback since Dou Yandong was playing Liu Jianming. Seeing their confusion, Coach Liu explained, "Playing only one role makes it hard to spot your own flaws and areas for improvement. So, from now on, you three will switch roles and each perform a scene. This will also help you understand your characters better."


The three agreed without objection. When Qi Lin performed as Liu Jianming, everyone's eyes changed!


NEXT

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