Differences in Identity Construction and Fan Engagement: A Comparative Study of Theater and Pop Music Fans in China

Concerts and operas are considered as high art, often with higher barriers to entry compared to pop music. This perspective, combined with a lack of promotional efforts from producers, resulted in limited public attention for theater performances. However, the rise of variety shows in recent years has brought high culture into the spotlight for Chinese audiences, leading to a rapid expansion of theater fan communities. This shift has become a significant area of study within Chinese fan culture. It raises an intriguing question: will these emerging theater enthusiasts adopt the engagement strategies of established pop music fans, or will their approaches differ? This paper employs participatory observation and conducts in-depth interviews with 40 fans to explore the unique behaviors and motivations of these two groups, ultimately constructing a model for identity formation among theater lovers and pop music fans. The research findings indicate that, like pop music fans, theater enthusiasts are also driven by self-gratification and idol worship. However, a significant difference lies in the fact that theater lovers actively or passively embody the roles of cultural ambassadors and supporters in their identity construction. Their modes of participation are often closely tied to the cultural narratives they support, reflecting a sense of responsibility and a desire to contribute to preserving and disseminating the art form. This research underscores the importance of understanding the spontaneous nature of fan activities within the context of cultural identity formation, offering new insights into how different fan cultures shape and reflect their identities.