On a visit to Hengdian World Studios in Zhejiang province last week, I saw conclusive evidence that life has returned to normal.

Tourists have returned in numbers in the past two months after production work was suspended and the studios closed to the public on Jan 27 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Visitors are again flocking to watch dramas performed in the Guangzhou and Hong Kong Street Scenic Area, one of the busiest parts of Hengdian.

Livestreaming hosts dressed in traditional costume are shooting vlogs, while food stalls are back in business outside and inside the studios.

Witnessing this bustling activity, I realized that Hengdian, known as "China's Hollywood", had made a full recovery from the pandemic.

I watched a performance of Bianliang Yimeng, a vaudeville show that vividly depicts prosperity during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) in what is now Kaifeng, Henan province, known in the past as Bianliang. I was fascinated by the talented actors and the magnificent stage sets.

Members of the audience, who had to observe social distancing in the theater, gave the performers thunderous applause.

I also interviewed Chen Entao, who supervises hengpiao, or extras, for film and TV work. Chen said the extras are conscientious and never give up. Some have also taken part-time jobs as food delivery workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

I returned from my day trip to Hengdian safe in the knowledge that it is not only well equipped as a center for film and TV production work, but is also a captivating scenic spot and a place where dreams can be pursued. It clearly has a bright future.

The town is one of the reasons the film and TV industry can be confident of recovering well from the pandemic.

    CAI JINGWEN