Grass-Stage Troupes(草台班子):
In Chinese, it is pronounced as: cǎo tái bān zi，Written as:

“Grass-stage troupe” is a Chinese term primarily referring to opera troupes that travel and perform long-term in rural market towns, deriving its name from “grass-stage plays.”
The term has two main meanings: firstly, it generally refers to opera troupes that travel and perform long-term in villages or small towns. These troupes typically set up makeshift stages in rural marketplaces for their performances; secondly, it metaphorically describes a group hastily thrown together and of low quality.
Originating from folk performances to honor deities, grass-stage troupes emerged whenever a deity’s birthday was celebrated. Performances would take place at local temples, or, in the absence of a temple, on makeshift stages erected in open fields to entertain the public. With the flourishing of regional operas during the Qing dynasty, and facing discrimination by the feudal literati, many local opera troupes were unable to perform within city limits and had to resort to temporary, rudimentary stages in rural market towns, hence being dubbed “grass-stage troupes.”
In modern times, the concept of grass-stage troupes extends beyond traditional opera troupes. It is also used to describe groups that are temporarily assembled and of low quality. This usage typically carries a pejorative connotation, suggesting a lack of professionalism and stability. Despite its often negative modern connotation, the term “grass-stage troupe” can be applied positively in some contexts.
For example, Shanghai’s Grass Stage is a grassroots theatre group initiated by writers and theatrical workers aimed at fostering autonomy through drama, advancing discussions on social issues, and organizing performances in non-traditional venues such as communities. This usage highlights the positive role of grass-stage troupes in promoting grassroots theater and cultural activities.
Phrases like “the world is a giant grass-stage troupe” are commonly used to suggest that many things in the world may not be as high-end as they appear and are just ordinary. Apart from a few industries requiring high professionalism and technical skills, most people and industries are relatively basic and often involve entering first and learning on the job. Thus, there is no need to constantly worry about one’s lack of abilities.