Over 10 companies and research teams from the Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone (also known as Optics Valley of China, or OVC) converged at the 22nd China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair from May 21 to 25, showcasing innovative applications in cultural heritage and dissemination.

The 22nd China (Shenzhen) International Cultural Industries Fair concludes on May 25. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

The Hubei Pavilion, spanning 600 square meters, featured 128 cultural enterprises presenting over 5,000 products. These included traditional cultural products alongside digital creative works, AI interactions, and VR experiences, drawing crowds of domestic and international guests.

The Hubei Pavilion attracts large crowds of visitors. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

A highlight of the fair was Optics Valley Dongzhi's "Photon Lumen S1 Humanoid Robot", which performed Huangmei Opera alongside professional actors. This unique display blended human and machine, ancient and modern, in a captivating spectacle.

A humanoid robot developed by Optics Valley Dongzhi performs Huangmei Opera alongside professional actors. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

Ma Yuan, a representative from Optics Valley Dongzhi, explained that the humanoid robot boasts stable movement capabilities and a "brain" that allows for learning and interaction. "For this performance, the robot learned Huangmei Opera by analyzing videos, quickly mastering complex opera movements," Ma said.

The humanoid robot developed by Optics Valley Dongzhi interacts with visitors. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

YHKT Entertainment showcased merchandise of the animation Ling Cage, attracting anime enthusiasts who admired the detailed characters and exchanged insights with fellow fans.

During the fair, OVC's Digital Communication Group (DCG) was named one of the "Top 30 National Growth Cultural Enterprises 2026", marking its third consecutive year on the list.

YHKT Entertainment showcases merchandise of the animation Ling Cage. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

OVC is currently home to 383 cultural enterprises, with revenues surpassing 130 billion yuan ($19.17 billion) as of 2025. Looking ahead, the zone aims to enhance its industry ecosystem by focusing on niches like gaming and esports, animation and online literature, creative design, and digital consumption.