The next day, the Grand Theater was all set, and Xiaoxiao took a group of people onto the streets for a charity performance to sell tickets.
The main event was a parade performance, where everyone followed the music and danced as they walked.
This had been rehearsed in advance, and to rid everyone of the lingering poison of Yixiang Courtyard, Xiaoxiao had also purposely arranged for men to dance along.
She wanted everyone to know that Yixiang Courtyard was no longer a place for selling oneself, but a venue for performances that men, women, and children of all ages could attend.
Yang Ming even dispatched people from the Escort Agency to provide protection and prevent any disturbances.
There were also people explaining at the front, "Don’t miss out as you pass by, our Joy Grand Theater will officially open tomorrow. When the time comes, there will be a variety of unique performances, and everyone is welcome to come and watch."
"If you want to watch the performances, you must buy tickets in advance. The prices vary, whether you’re an ordinary citizen or a noble official, you can enjoy the joyful experience our Joy Grand Theater offers."
"The Joy Grand Theater has three shows daily, a morning, an afternoon, and a midnight show. Whenever you want to watch, buy tickets for that time. Each show only has a hundred tickets, and no entry is permitted without a ticket."
"Don’t think that only men can enter the Joy Grand Theater, people of all genders and ages are welcome to watch. If you want to have fun with your family and find nowhere else to go when you’re bored, come to our Joy Grand Theater. We guarantee you won’t regret it and will want to come back."
Such a parade attracted many onlookers. Everyone was very surprised by this approach and there was much discussion. Many were drawn to follow the procession all the way.
In fact, this parade was just a formality. Xiaoxiao wanted to publicize the Grand Theater to everyone, so they would know about it. The tickets for the opening day had almost sold out.
Manager Tian used to be a madam and knew many nobles and officials. Moreover, because of Xiaoxiao’s previous performances, many former clients of Yixiang Courtyard had bought tickets.
Although the parade was spectacular, it also faced challenges. Many people were resistant, mainly women who didn’t understand.
"Heh, sounds nice, but it’s still just the same people from Yixiang Courtyard who sold themselves."
"It’s just another way of selling."
"Exactly, the ones who go are still those men."
"If my man dares to go, I’ll break his legs."
"Haha, you always say that, but your man’s legs seem fine, still walking without a problem."
"Anyway, we all need to keep an eye on our men, can’t let them go to such places."
The dancers heard every word of this conversation clearly. Even though they had grown tough-skinned from their past, now that they had reformed, such words still hurt. Could they never escape the world’s scorn?
Xiaoxiao was watching the girls’ expressions and felt very distressed herself. She wanted to lead them to a better life, but these deeply ingrained attitudes couldn’t change overnight, maybe it would take a long time.
The Grand Theater was more than just a means to earn money; it was these people’s hope. Xiaoxiao hoped for them to be accepted by society, which is why the tickets were affordable for ordinary people.
Was it a mistake to have the girls parade? No, she had to encourage them. She was about to speak when a voice caught her attention.
"Don’t talk about them like that."