The second Shenzhen Pop Science Drama Contest was held during the past weekend at Shenzhen Children’s Palace. A major event of the seventh Shenzhen Young Science and Art Festival, the contest was themed “Fighting COVID-19 With Science.” After three months of initial rounds of competition, a total of 38 teams from the city’s primary and middle schools entered the finals, performing original fables, fairytales as well as shows adapted from real life stories. Some focused on combating bacteria and viruses with good hygiene habits, such as using an extra pair of chopsticks while sharing dishes, or wearing face masks and adhering to social distancing rules. Some promoted healthy eating habits by encouraging people to eat more vegetables. Some raised people’s awareness about protecting wildlife and preserving the natural environment. Some fantasized traveling to another planet. And some took the opportunity to laud the sacrifices made by medicinal workers during the pandemic. More than 50 pop science play scripts have also been recommended to compete in a Guangdong Province-level script contest. Shenzhen Children’s Palace has organized colorful public benefit events each year, hoping to foster in the young a passion for scientific study and performing arts. (Debra Li) | 