"I have to admit that I want to make a name for myself," Ma said, adding that he once moved his wife to tears with a song. He was turned down by Shi, but promised that a pre-recording of his singing would appear on the gala website.

Some other performers have taken it as a chance to have fun. "Compared to the big CCTV gala, this one is a good platform for common people to entertain ourselves," said Peter's mother.

Shi and his team take an easy attitude to their event as well. "I'm so busy and tired these days as you can see, but to tell the truth I don't feel much pressure," noted Shi. The leading man added that he's glad to see the event progressing every day.

The show is not a commercial event, according to Shi. "I'm doing this thing because I like it, and I'm not calculating how much money I put in it," he said.

The event has received much public attention and support. The organizing committee is made of Shi's friends and professionals who volunteered to help. Sponsors are taking care of the performers, offices, construction of the official website and live broadcasting on the Internet. Lawyers have also offered free legal advice. Tickets to the 200 seats at the event is given away for free.

"We don't have commercials during the broadcasting, but give open thanks to all the organizations and people who have helped us," Shi said.