WUHAN – Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) premiered its original theatrical production The People's Physician QIU Fazu on December 6, marking the 111th birthday of Academician QIU Fazu, a foundational figure in modern Chinese surgery. Staged at the Gymnasium of Tongji Medical College of HUST, the play was co-produced by Publicity Department of HUST, Tongji Medical College of HUST and the Yangtze River People’s Art Theatre, featuring a cast consisting of college stuff, students, and medical workers.

The debut aligns with national efforts to advance cultural education and celebrate the spirit of educators and scientists. Prof. QIU Fazu, honored as a “People’s Medical Scientist” in 2004, was a pioneer in general surgery, hepatobiliary surgery, and organ transplantation in China. His life and career are portrayed through a narrative that interweaves key historical moments, from his return to China with his German wife in 1946 to his voluntary service in medical corps during the war to resist US Aggression and Aid Korea, his leadership in combating schistosomiasis, and his commitment to medical education and earthquake relief well into his nineties.

Mr. TENG Dengguang, Deputy Director of Infrastructure Department of HUST, highlighted how the play translates textbook ideals into tangible human warmth, capturing details such as QIU’s precise surgical technique, his frontline service letters, and his loving care for patients.

Ms. WANG Haixia, a 2024 master’s student in Health Management, reflected, “As medical students, we are guided by Professor QIU’s initial heart to safeguard public health. He is our spiritual benchmark, inspiring us to make our share of contribution to a Healthy China.” Another student shared his comments online, “This dialogue across time engraves Dr. QIU’s spirit indelibly into our hearts.”

The drama employs overlapping timelines to artistically portray QIU Fazu’s lifelong dedication to medicine and his people-centered ethos, reinforcing his legacy for a new generation of healthcare professionals.