A senior Chinese official has called on modern dramatists to produce more dramas reflecting the daily lives of ordinary people here at the centennial anniversary of China's modern drama Tuesday.

Li Changchun, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, praised the achievements made by the modern dramatist and paid his respects to senior artists.

"Modern drama should continue to serve the people and society," he said.

He said modern drama institutions should train not only dramatists and actors, but cultivate versatile talents in art and management.

He also urged the local governments to support modern drama and create a favorable climate for its development.

(Xinhua News Agency April 18, 2007)