In 2025, Beijing has become a hotspot for foreign actors seeking to break into China's booming film and television industry. With short-form dramas surging in popularity, talent agencies on the Chinese mainland are rolling out Hollywood-style training programs designed to polish acting skills, build on-camera confidence, and prepare international faces for leading roles.
At the Foreign Talent Entertainment Company (FTEC) in Chaoyang District, workshops span eight weeks and cover on-camera technique, Mandarin dialogue coaching, and cultural immersion sessions. According to FTEC's management, applications from foreign actors have risen by 60% this year, with participants hailing from over 20 countries and regions.
"This training bridges two worlds," says Li Wei, FTEC's program director. "We combine Western acting methods with insights into local production styles to help actors fit seamlessly into Chinese mainland sets."
Agencies are responding to a clear market need: short-form dramas—episodes of 15 to 30 minutes—have seen a 150% increase in production since early 2024. Streaming platforms in the Chinese mainland now host dozens of original titles weekly, all seeking diverse talent to appeal to global audiences.
For many aspiring actors, the experience also doubles as a cultural journey. Training days begin with Mandarin etiquette workshops, followed by visits to local studios and networking events with directors and casting agents. Participants often share highlights on social media, showcasing Beijing landmarks alongside behind-the-scenes footage.
As productions aim for broader reach, foreign actors trained in Beijing are landing roles in projects that screen across Asia and beyond. "Landing a part in a short-form series here can open doors to co-productions and international film festivals," notes Emma Johansson, a recent graduate from Sweden.
Looking ahead, agencies are exploring partnerships with international film schools and virtual reality modules to enhance remote training. With the global appetite for fresh content at an all-time high, Beijing’s Hollywood-style workshops are set to shape the next generation of cross-cultural stars.
Reference(s):
Hollywood-style foreign actor training in Beijing: A look inside
cgtn.com
