The ‘drifting extras’ of Hengdian World Studios
By Globaltimes.cn, Published: 2018-11-22 21:16:39
New arrivals register for work permits at Hengdian World Studios. This is often the first stop for “Heng drifters.” Photo: Li Hao/GT
Editor's Note:
Take a peek at the life of extras at Hengdian World Studios in Dongyang, East China’s Zhejiang Province. As people seeking acting work increasingly collect around the studios, the group has earned the name “Heng drifters.” Photos: Li Hao/GT

Two extras get into makeup after arriving at 8 am. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Two extras change wardrobe to shoot an online series. They both play police officers and have no lines. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Zhang Hailong, who has 11 years of experience at Hengdian World Studios, reads over a script in preparation for his role as a merchant. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Two extras in costume prepare for a shoot at the studio. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Extras return their costumes after finishing a shoot. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Peking Opera actors perform at Hengdian World Studios. Photo: Li Hao/GT
The Ming and Qing Dynasty building complex attract tourists from across the country. Photo: Li Hao/GT
An extra finishes registering for a work permit. Photo: Li Hao/GT
An extra holds up his newly acquired work permit. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Pictured is a view of the Ming and Qing Dynasty building complex, Hengdian World Studios. Photo: Li Hao/GT
A truck loaded with props stops outside the Ming and Qing Dynasty building complex, Hengdian World Studios’ largest lot. Photo: Li Hao/GT
Information about notable extras hangs on the wall of an office at Hengdian World Studios. Photo: Li Hao/GT