BEIJING, June 13 (Xinhua) -- An original ethnic dance drama based on Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) poet Su Dongpo was staged Wednesday and Thursday nights at the National Center for the Performance Arts in Beijing.

The drama "Dongpo Hainan" tells the story of Su Dongpo, also known as Su Shi, who was demoted in his later years and lived in exile in south China's island province of Hainan for three years.

According to the 100-minute drama based on historical facts, though living a hard life in Hainan, Dongpo was deeply moved by the local ethnic Li minority people and tried his best to help them with education and fighting off bullies and diseases.

"The drama has praised the spirit of Dongpo as well as the kindness and enthusiasm of local people," said Peng Yuxiang, chief director of the drama, hoping that more people can learn about the history of Dongpo and Hainan.

Since its debut in 2015, over 60 performances of the drama have been staged in many cities across the country, including Beijing, Tianjin and Shanghai.

"The drama has been undergoing modifications throughout the four years and it has become increasingly mature," said Peng, adding that it will be performed in more cities in China in the future.

Peng said he was considering taking the drama abroad, noting a cultural company intended to introduce the drama in Japan and related issues are under negotiations.