Xiao Shenyang, the apprentice and new partner of the famous Chinese comedian Zhao Benshen, has become an overnight sensation.

After the success of his performance at this year's CCTV Spring Festival Gala, footage of his comic sketches topped almost all video-sharing Websites in China, and his blog has received 5 million hits.

The good news for local fans is that the comedian, along with Zhao's other apprentices, will present a comedy show at the Shanghai Grand Stage on April 26.

Xiao Shenyang says he is thrilled at the upcoming Shanghai performance. There are rumors he will perform Northeast Errenzhuan, a Chinese folk song-and-dance duet, with his wife, who is also a comic performer.

Their four-year-old daughter is also expected to perform.

Born into a poor peasant family, the 28-year-old never gave up his dreams of being a performer.

In 2001, he was noticed by Zhao Benshan. Soon he became Zhao's apprentice and also got the chance to star in the TV drama "The Love of the Village."

Many now put his huge popularity down to his boy-next-door charm and his air of honesty and emotional credibility.

(Shanghai Daily February 28, 2009)