A controversial “get good seats by adopting calves” scheme put in place for a sell-out concert by one of China’s top entertainers has caused a stir on mainland social media.
Actor and singer Yi Yangqianxi’s concert sparked a nationwide ticket-buying frenzy.
But a public welfare project has captivated social media by offering tickets for privileged seats for people who pay 120,000 yuan (US$17,000) to adopt 12 calves.
Yi, 24, who is also known as Jackson Yee, is regarded as the most accomplished star in China born after the year 2000.
Since making his debut as a member of the boy band TFBoys at the age of 12, Yi has become hugely popular.
When tickets for his concert in Shanghai on August 2 went on sale on July 24, they sold out in seconds, Hubei TV reported.
Some good seats have attracted bids of as much as 80,000 yuan (US$11,000) on the second-hand market, the report said.
However, internet users soon noticed another way to get precious seats: join a “calf adoption plan”.
The project was launched by Xiangyang Public Welfare Development Centre in Huaihua, in central Hunan province.
Anyone who adopts eight calves at a cost of 80,000 yuan will receive a randomly selected ticket for Yi’s concert. People who adopt 10 calves for 100,000 yuan (US$14,000) can get two such tickets.
Individuals spending 120,000 yuan to adopt 12 calves are entitled to a ticket from a so-called “infield” seat, which is usually deemed to be the best location at the concert.
“Yes, this project is real. Some people have already received the tickets through this channel,” a worker from the public welfare organisation told the media.
He said the calves would be sent to be raised by farmers and slaughtered about two years later.
Adopters can choose one of three options after two years.
They can receive raw beef, processed beef snacks, or what they paid plus potential profits after the organisation sells the beef products.
“This project is designed to help farmers earn more money,” the worker said.
Reaction to the scheme was mixed on mainland social media.
“It is good that a top star aligns with philanthropy to support farmers,” one person said.
However, another netizen made an accusation: “The organisers cannot guarantee any profits. Be alert to similar fraudulent schemes.”
Yi graduated from the Central Academy of Drama in Beijing with a bachelor’s degree in performance.
He won the Best New Performer title at the 2020 Hong Kong Film Awards.
In June, Yi won the Best Actor award for 2024 from the China Film Directors Guild.
He has sung at China’s most-watched CCTV Spring Festival Gala Show eight times. - SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST
