International artists perform at the opening ceremony of the first Oh! Castle Festival in Topu. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The first Oh! Castle Festival in Topu kicked off in Haimen district, Nantong, on Aug 3, welcoming 13 art troupes from both China and other countries including Germany, Spain, and Russia.

International artists perform at the opening ceremony of the first Oh! Castle Festival in Topu. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

The nine-day event will entertain its visitors with opera shows, art exchanges, and exhibitions, serving as a platform for Nantong to showcase its charm and promote international cultural exchanges.

International artists perform at the opening ceremony of the first Oh! Castle Festival in Topu. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

In collaboration with Topu International Animation Week, the festival will exhibit award-winning animation works. It will also partner with the Shenzhen Illustration Association to introduce opera-themed freehand sketches and arrange discussions in children's aesthetics with Asian Alliance of Festivals and Theatres for Young Audiences.