Selected Productions
01. Drama: The First Building Under Heaven
Beijing People’s Art Theatre
Highlights
Since its debut in 1988, The First Building Under Heaven has become a classic production of the Beijing People’s Art Theatre. The play offers audiences a glimpse into a corner of Chinese culinary culture, presenting a vivid portrayal of the culinary world on stage. In this world, every profession has its own secrets, and each individual follows their own path. What unfolds within the walls of “Fu Ju De” is not just a reflection of a single industry or a type of food, but a microcosm of society at large, making it a grand spectacle in every sense.
Director of The First Building Under Heaven: Gu Wei
“This precarious building—who is the master, and who is the guest? Just three old rooms—sometimes welcoming the bright moon, sometimes catching the breeze.” This couplet, quoted from an inscription by Emperor Kangxi for a restaurant and later matched by scholar Ji Xiaolan, serves as the crowning touch in the drama. The lines “raising cups and toasting before the table, while the dishes are full of all five flavors” seem to describe a dining scene, yet they metaphorically represent life itself. Through the rise and fall of the old restaurant, the play unfolds a microcosm of human experience, leaving the audience with endless reflection as the curtain falls.
Through the rise and fall of a single restaurant, a glimpse of an era is revealed.
Through the fates of a group of characters, the beliefs of an entire industry are told.
The First Building Under Heaven begins with food but extends far beyond it. At the Capital Theatre, a new round of performances of The First Building Under Heaven is now underway, and we eagerly await your presence.
The First Building Under Heaven returns to the stage, preserving its “old flavors” while reaching new heights.
Drama Review | This Precarious Building—Who is the Master, and Who is the Guest?
A Discussion on the “Host-Guest Relationship” in The First Building Under Heaven.
Tiem: July 9-10
Place: Capital Theatre
02. Musical: The Count of Monte Cristo (Chinese Version)
Beijing Performance and Arts Group, Beijing Dance Drama and Opera
Highlights
The musical The Count of Monte Cristo is adapted from the famous literary work by French author Alexandre Dumas. It tells a legendary tale of love, betrayal, and revenge. Since its premiere at the Bloshoi Theatre in 2008, the production has been performed continuously for over a decade, setting a record for the longest-running contemporary musical in Russia.
Presented in the compelling format of a musical, the story vividly portrays the tragedies of fate’s cruelty and the descent of human nature. The musical brilliantly brings to life the atmosphere of European society during Napoleon’s “Hundred Days” as depicted in the original novel. The richly woven plot, full of intricate conflicts and dangerous twists, features a diverse cast of characters from all walks of life. Their vibrant portrayals draw the audience into the narrative, inviting them to laugh, cry, and experience the grandeur of a revenge saga together.
Legendary Story, classic Adaptation
Damai Score: 9.1
Weibo Topic Reads: Over 600 million
Deep Endorsement by Authoritative Media
“A captivating world of aesthetics”
Glamorous Cast, stellar Singers
About to ignite and shine once again on the magnificent stage
“The most surprising aspect of the Chinese version of The Count of Monte Cristo is the improvement in the actors’ overall abilities in singing, dancing, and acting. Both the lead and supporting roles showcase a high level of vocal performance and acting skill.”
— Cao Min (Head of the Drama and Film Department, China University of Labor Relations)
“The Chinese version of The Count of Monte Cristo is not only a feast for the senses but also a modern interpretation of a literary classic. Through its compelling presentation of emotional depth, music and dance, character development, stage design, and costumes, the musical successfully brings Dumas’ classic novel to life on stage. It offers a dramatic and profound artistic masterpiece that resonates emotionally with the audience, regardless of their familiarity with the original novel, providing a literary journey that blends contemplation with enjoyment.”
—Huang Tianle (Associate Professor, Communication University of China)
“The Chinese version of The Count of Monte Cristo has a remarkably high level of fidelity to the original work. Not only are the characters, plot, and musical numbers highly consistent, but the production also distinguishes itself from typical Western musicals with its rich Russian-style lighting, stage design, and costumes. The stage design combines elements of grandiosity and minimalism, featuring several large steel frame structures that serve as sailboats, prison cells in the Château d’If, and towering walls surrounding the dance floor, reminiscent of the weathered walls of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The Chinese version faithfully reproduces the costume styles and stage settings of the Russian version, and in some aspects, even surpasses it in detail. For instance, in the Russian version, the actor portraying the male protagonist is slightly older, which makes the young sailor Edmond appear somewhat mature. However, in the Chinese version, both Edmond and Mercedes are played by young actors, and the transformation of the main characters showcases the excellent work of makeup artists, costume designers, and other artistic professionals.”
— Huang Zongquan (Professor at the Central Conservatory of Music, Contracted Critic of the Beijing Federation of Literary and Art Circles)
Tickets on Sale Tomorrow | Catch All the Highlight Moments of the “Count”! Let’s Look Forward to Returning to the Place “Where the Dream Began.”
Time: July 12-14
Place: Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center
03. Drama: Hamlet
National Centre for the Performing Arts Drama Troupe
Highlights
The classic play Hamlet has endured for over four centuries, continuing to captivate audiences with its profound themes. This masterpiece by Shakespeare was translated with great dedication by Zhu Shenghao a century ago, offering deep insights to Chinese readers. In early July, the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) will present its meticulously crafted production of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, which has been in the making for eight years. This rendition will premiere at the Beijing Performing Arts Centre, reviving Zhu Shenghao’s Hamlet and immersing us in a Shakespearean universe imbued with Chinese sensibilities.
Amidst the bombardment of invaders, Zhu Shenghao, despite his declining health, persisted in translating Shakespeare’s works, unveiling the interpretive perspective of the National Centre for the Performing Arts’s production of the classic drama Hamlet. The Danish trumpet resounds from afar as Hamlet plots revenge for his father, but his hesitation and indecisiveness ultimately lead to the tragic downfall of the royal family.
The play features three actors who play dual roles. Zhao Ling portrays both Prince Hamlet and the translator Zhu Shenghao. Through his portrayal, he embodies the “melancholic beauty” of the hesitant Hamlet and the remarkable feat of translating Shakespeare embodied by Zhu Shenghao, who believed that actions speak louder than words. This allows the audience to experience director Chen Xinyi’s analysis of Hamlet, depicting him as a “giant of thoughts but a dwarf in action.” Wang Wenjie plays Song Qingru/Ophelia, showcasing the image of a woman who guards her lover’s ideals and the tragic character who transitions from purity and beauty to madness and death. Sun Lishi, on the other hand, plays the cunning and sinister “new king” Claudius and the “old king” who Hamlet regards as the epitome of moral ideals. The transformation between these dual identities will provide the audience with a sense of being “unexpectedly familiar yet deeply immersed,” prompting them to reflect on the tragic characters.
“If a bomb were hanging over your head, and a pile of responsibilities were laid before you, could you still ponder the matter of life and death? Would you still ask, ‘To be or not to be?’”
— Chen Xinyi (Director of the drama Hamlet)
Time: July 12-14
Place: Beijing Performing Arts Centre
04. Drama: The Eastward Wave
National Theatre of China
The following video is provided by the National Theatre of China
Highlights
Douban Rating: 8.8
First round of tickets sold out in 9 seconds
Nominated for the 1st International
Theatre “Academy Awards” (Best Screenplay)
6th Chinese Theatre Awards
Best Actor (Winner)
Best Supporting Actor (Nominee)
Best Newcomer (Nominee)
Finalist for the 2023 One Drama Awards: Best Actor of the Year
This play is adapted from the novel The Last Radio Wave, which won the People's Literature Prize. It is directed by the outstanding young director Zha Wenhao from the National Theatre of China, with screenplay by Zha Wenbai and Zhong Ming. The main theme of the play is "erecting monuments for martyrs and chronicling for the people." It focuses on the wartime experiences of the New Fourth Army's communication soldiers during the nationwide resistance against the Japanese invasion. Through a red youth code that transcends time and space, the play tells a revolutionary story and inherits the revolutionary spirit.
“The script of The Eastward Wave is highly polished, with solid dialogue that reveals both character and skill. The play chooses an excellent perspective, authentically showcasing the deep connection between the people and the army. It is grounded in a contemporary cultural stance, respects historical truth, and portrays the choices of the Chinese people in extreme situations, creating an epic theatrical effect. The minimalist, modern stage design incorporates Morse code imagery, reflecting an aesthetic where 'art leads technology' in perfect harmony.”
— Song Baozhen (Director of the Drama Research Institute, Chinese National Academy of Arts)
“This is a revolutionary historical drama that excels in every aspect, from content and form to plot development and character portrayal, and from textual description to the transformation into stage art. It has achieved a breakthrough in cross-circle communication, becoming an instant success from the moment it premiered. This is incredibly exciting, as it represents a new mainstream drama, offering a valuable creative expression that is both youthful and vibrant.”
— Liu Qiong (Deputy Director of the Arts and Culture Department, People's Daily)
“The significance of this play lies not only in portraying a war, but in telling a story that is rich in humanity. It is remarkably innovative, down-to-earth, and deeply moving. It is the first drama produced by the National Theatre after receiving a letter of response from the General Secretary. It is not slogan-oriented, but manages to touch the audience with its brutal yet heartwarming approach. It represents something enduring, reflecting the original intention and aspirations of the entire creative team that stems from their 'heart'.”
- Zhao Chen (Deputy Editor-in-Chief, China Culture Daily)
“Subtle yet magnificent, the new wave of mainstream stage plays has truly evolved!”
Time: July 10-14
Place: National Theatre of China
05 Jixiang Theatre 3rd Anniversary Celebration: "Guocui Jixiang" Peking Opera Gala
Jingju Theater Company of Beijing
Highlights
The Peking Opera Gala will feature a powerful lineup of renowned Peking Opera artists and talented performers from different generations. Leading the performance are celebrated masters such as Wang Rongrong, Li Hongtu, Chi Xiaoqiu, Zhu Qiang, and Hu Wenge. They will be joined by national first-class actors like Yang Shaopeng, Zhang Xinyue, Chang Qiuyue, Guo Wei, Zhai Mo, Dou Xiaoxuan, Kang Jing, Zhu Hong, as well as rising stars Wang Xiaoli, Suo Mingfang, Zhang Zixi, Qiu Shi, and Wang Yingzheng. Together, they will perform to celebrate the third anniversary of the reopening of Jixiang Theatre.
The concert will bring classic Peking Opera pieces back to life, showcasing a variety of styles. Iconic arias from well-known operas such as The Poetry Gathering, Heroic Farewell, The Pavilion of Spring and Autumn, The Chinese Orphan, and Pearl-curtain Village will be performed. These familiar melodies will allow the audience to fully indulge in the rich tradition of Peking Opera.
Time: July 14
Place: Jixiang Theater
06. Kunqu Opera: The Romance of the Western Chamber (Excerpted Version)
The Northern Kunqu Opera Theatre
Highlights
The Romance of the Western Chamber is a Yuan-Dynasty Zaju written by Wang Shifu, also known as The Northern Western Chamber or Wang's Western Chamber. Its poetic language is praised as "the beauty of flowers and beauties" and represents the highest achievement in the development of Chinese opera over a thousand years. This play holds the top position among the four classical masterpieces in the history of Chinese opera (the other three being The Peony Pavilion, The Palace of Eternal Life, and The Peach Blossom Fan). The characters Cui Yingying, Zhang Sheng, and Hongniang from the play are widely known and deeply loved by the audience. The theme of the work expresses the beautiful wish of "lovers finally being united," and it is hailed as the love bible of China.
"The Excerpted Version" of The Romance of the Western Chamber, produced by the Northern Kunqu Opera Theatre, is a masterpiece of "Yuan Zha Kun Chang." This version extracts the essence of the full play for a condensed performance. The entire production features only six actors and has a runtime of one and a half hours. Presented on stage with delicate and exquisite aesthetics, it tells a daring and captivating love story set in the Pujiu Temple. The play has been performed as a resident production at the Lao She Teahouse and Zhengyi Temple, receiving high praise from the audience. It is hailed as a "delicate and exquisite drama" and has been honored with the Beijing First Outstanding Small Theater Production Award and Outstanding Performance Award.
Time: July 12
Place: Mei Lanfang Theatre
07. Drama: The Isle
Hong Kong Repertory Theatre
Highlights
The Isle is a classic drama created by the Artistic Director of the Hong Kong Repertory Theatre, Poon Wai-sum, over thirty years ago. It embodies his youthful understanding of life and love. Since its premiere in the 1990s, the play has been performed multiple times and has toured extensively in Hong Kong, Macau, Guangzhou, and Canada.
Since its debut, The Isle has inspired various interpretations due to its rich imagery and poetic dialogue. Is the isle an eternal home or a temporary refuge? Is the fragrance a lasting memory or the passage of forgotten time? This play guides the audience through its dialogue and imagery, inviting them to savor the lingering essence of life.
As the "big brother" of the Hong Kong theater scene, the Hong Kong Repertory Theatre, founded in 1977, is the oldest and largest professional theater company in Hong Kong's history. Over the past forty-seven years, the company has produced nearly five hundred plays, creating numerous theatrical classics and establishing its leadership position as the flagship theater company in Hong Kong. Some of the representative works of the company include Dear, Hu Xueyan, The First Floor in the World, The Last Supper, Ambiguous, Hammer in the Head, and The Great Pretender. The Hong Kong Repertory Theatre has always been known for its authentic local themes and solid performances, forming a distinctive “Hong Kong-style” that attracts the attention of mainland audiences.
This is a romantic sketch and an adult fable story.
Time: July 12-14
Place: Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center
08 Opera: Moonlight Over the Bay
China National Opera and Dance Drama Theater
Highlights
Huangpu Military Academy, born from the first cooperation between the Kuomintang and the Communist Party of China, carries a profound legacy of revolutionary spirit and red traditions. The "patriotic and revolutionary" spirit of Huangpu shines brightly against the backdrop of the new era's historical and cultural context.
The opera Moonlight Over the Bay is set in the Guangzhou Development Zone, with descendants of Huangpu Military Academy as the main characters. It portrays their outstanding contributions to the high-quality and high-level development of the Guangzhou Development Zone in the new historical period. The opera depicts the spirit of the builders and fighters of the new era, who are progressive, pioneering, and striving, as well as their original aspirations and pursuits of inheriting and promoting the Huangpu spirit with patriotism at its core. It showcases the picturesque landscapes and surging waves of the new era, the heroic people and grand blueprint on the new journey, and the bright future of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
The opera Moonlight Over the Bay is deeply rooted in the historical origins of the development of Chinese civilization, showcasing rich ideological connotations and profound cultural heritage. Through the highly integrated artistic form of opera, it cleverly combines excellent traditional Chinese culture with modern aesthetics, demonstrating a unique charm. In the opera, through the unfolding of the trajectory of each character's fate and the hidden stories behind them, with the power of music and drama, it conveys the contemporary connotation of the Huangpu spirit and showcases the spirit of the Chinese nation's outstanding sons and daughters who are constantly growing, patriotic, and striving.
Time: July 12-13
Place: National Centre for the Performing Arts
09. Peking Opera: Qin Xianglian
Starring Meng Guanglu and Zhang Huifang
Highlights
Peking Opera Qin Xianglian, also known as The Case of Executing Chen Shimei, is based on the original Bangzi opera Ming Gong's Judgment and has been adapted into various regional opera styles such as Yu opera, Yangzhou opera, and Huai opera.
Qin Xianglian is a representative work of the Zhang Junqiu school of Peking Opera. One of Zhang Junqiu's key techniques in character portrayal is "expressing emotions through voice," requiring a singing style that is "delicate, charming, crisp, and fluid." His vocal technique is known for its flexibility and innovative transitions, with new melodies emerging seamlessly. The role of Qin Xianglian is particularly challenging due to the frequent alternation of musical styles, demanding exceptional skill from the performer. For example, when Qin Xianglian sings during Chen Shimei's birthday banquet, hoping that he will remember their past and repent, she delivers the lines, "My husband is in the east, and I am in the west; the parting of the swallow pair is sorrowful indeed. In the deep boudoir, only the new wife smiles, but why does no one hear the old wife weep?" Her voice, filled with sorrow and longing, is as plaintive as it is touching, deeply moving the audience with its emotional depth.
In contrast, Bao Zheng's vocal style, as exemplified by the Qiu （Shengrong）school, masterfully combines both a deep, solemn tone and a bright, refined resonance. In the "Courtroom" scene, Bao Zheng "invites" Chen Shimei to the Kaifeng Prefecture court and presents Qin Xianglian's complaint, meticulously enumerating Chen's crimes: "Deceiving the emperor, lying to the sovereign, breaking his marriage vows, killing his wife and children, and forcing Han Qi to his death in the temple..." This segment, performed in a Xipi Kuaiban rhythm, is delivered with powerful force, each word landing with the weight of a thousand pounds, perfectly embodying Bao Zheng's fierce hatred of injustice. It is a true classic, showcasing Bao's unwavering moral integrity and righteous indignation.
Time: July 12
Place: National Centre for the Performing Arts
10 Cross-talk and Pingju Opera: Yang Sanjie
Beijing Traditional Folk Arts Troupe, China Pingju Opera Theatre
Highlights
A stage comedy blending classic Pingju opera with Cross-talk performance.
Renowned Cross-talk artists Li Jing and He Yunwei deliver powerful performances together.
Collaboration with esteemed Pingju opera artists Wang Lijing and Sun Luyang.
A unique cross-genre collision of Cross-talk and Pingju opera.
Beijing Traditional Folk Arts Troupe’s Cross-talk actors take on multiple roles in this versatile production.
A Must-See Performance | Experience the brilliance of Yang Sanjie during the sixth "Deep Affection for Art" Quyi Performance Week.
Time: July 14
Place: Cultural Palace of Nationalities Grand Theatre
11 Ballet: Serenade–The Rite of Spring
Suzhou Ballet Theatre
Highlights
Ballet, as the epitome of "beauty," has long been a vessel for conveying aesthetic elegance. Countless creators have offered their interpretations of beauty through various forms. Among them, George Balanchine, often regarded as the "Father of American Ballet," stands out as one of the most remarkable contributors.
Serenade, a milestone in the history of dance, was George Balanchine's first ballet created in America. This groundbreaking work introduced avant-garde concepts that opened new avenues for ballet's evolution. As Balanchine himself noted, “Serenade was developed during my teaching. I believe the best way to teach stagecraft is by giving dancers something new to perform—something they've never seen before.”
As one of Balanchine's most cherished works, Serenade continues to be performed by major ballet companies around the world. The current version includes four movements: "Sonatina," "Waltz," "Russian Theme," and "Elegy." In 2024, marking the 90th anniversary of this masterpiece, Suzhou Ballet Theatre has invited Rebecca Metzler, the Creative Director of New York City Ballet, to serve as the rehearsal master. This collaboration brings this classic work to the stage, offering audiences a high-quality artistic experience.
Scan the QR code to purchase tickets.
Time: July 13
Place: Tianqiao Theatre
12 New Techniques Astonishing the World: International Circus Gold Medal Show
Beijing Performance and Arts Group, China National Acrobatic Troupe
Highlights
New Techniques Astonishing the World: International Circus Gold Medal Show features award-winning circus acts from around the globe, curated by the China National Acrobatic Troupe. This high-quality international circus show brings together outstanding artists from nearly ten countries, all performing in a unified program. The show will be staged this summer at the Beijing Happy Valley · Overseas Chinese Town Grand Theatre.
The performance features a diverse range of acts, including acrobatics, aerial performances, and clowning. Most of these acts have received gold medals or other awards at major international circus arts festivals. The accolades include prestigious awards from events such as the China Wuqiao International Circus Festival, the Monte Carlo International Circus Festival, the Tomorrow International Circus Festival in France, the Girona International Circus Festival in Spain, and the St. Petersburg "Circus Without Borders" International Circus Festival in Russia. Notably, the aerial silk performer from Uzbekistan holds the world record for the fastest rotation speed among female aerial silk artists.
“Showcasing a World to Beijing” — China National Acrobatic Troupe’s New Techniques Astonishing the World at the Overseas Chinese Town Grand Theatre in Happy Valley
From Winning Competitions to Flourishing Markets — China National Acrobatic Troupe Presents Creative Masterpiece “New Techniques Astonishing the World”
Time: July 8-12/14
Place: Beijing Happy Valley, Overseas Chinese Town Grand Theatre
13. English Original Drama Revel’s World of Shakespeare 20th Anniversary Edition
Sevenages
The following video is provided by the Sevenages
Highlights
Revel’s World of Shakespeare first performed at Beijing People's Art Theatre in 2006, has toured extensively in Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Macau, and other cities over the past 17 years, receiving widespread acclaim from audiences.
This original English one-man show tells a humorous yet deeply touching story about a confused six-year-old boy and his strict and demanding "Shakespeare" teacher. Joseph Graves pours his love for Shakespeare into this play, making it a compelling experience for Shakespeare enthusiasts. The play also features numerous classic lines from Shakespeare's works, serving as a tribute to the great playwright.
Additionally, as a story about teachers and growth, this play easily brings to mind the Oscar-winning classic Dead Poets Society. In fact, much like Professor Keating, Principal Revell deeply impacts his students in his own unique way. Although the performance is in English, Joseph's vivid acting and expressive body language, combined with beautifully written Chinese subtitles, ensure that the audience's understanding of the plot is not hindered.
Scroll up and down to view more
Scan the QR code to purchase tickets
Time: July 12-14
Place: Erqi Theatre
14 Drama Hometown
Nanjing University Master of Arts Theatre Troupe
Highlights
Nanjing University pays tribute to Lu Xun's Hometown with the homonymous drama, commemorating the centenary of its publication. The play depicts the spiritual anguish of rural peasants and young intellectuals who have left their hometown, sharing a common spiritual core with the original work.
Hometown is poetic, as described by Lu Xun with "golden round moon," "sandy beach by the sea," and "emerald green watermelons." On the stage of "Hometown," there are recurring memories of Li Xin, such as the "tall water tower" and "golden wheat fields."
This play sets the story in Lu Xun's hometown a hundred years later. In Lu Xun's Hometown, intellectuals are representatives of great spiritual strength, and Lu Xun himself feels deep compassion for the villagers. However, in the drama Hometown, the playwright presents the "silence of intellectuals": there is intense contention and debate between those who returned to their hometown and those who stayed, but all communication fails, as if they are speaking different languages. The script focuses on the collision between modern civilization and traditional culture, objectively documenting the cultural transformation taking place in the new rural areas in the new era. This inevitably makes me ponder: a hundred years later, with tremendous changes in material aspects, do ignorance and estrangement still persist in people's spiritual realm?
Time: July 13-14
Place: Drama West Theater
15 Magic Bow Legend: "Enchanted by France" – Lv Siqing Violin Solo Concert
Highlights
As the first Asian to win the Gold Medal at the Paganini International Violin Competition,
Lv Siqing is undoubtedly one of the most outstanding Chinese violinists on the international music scene today.
His passionate performances and unparalleled musical charisma have captivated audiences worldwide.
The prestigious music magazine The Strad praised him as a "rare genius."
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France. Internationally renowned violinist Lv Siqing, together with pianist Lu Jingyi, will perform the romantic works of French composers Debussy, Saint-Saëns, and Franck.
Let the magic unleashed by the bowstrings bring the most wonderful music experience to the fans.
July 14th
Explore the romance and passion of France with Lv Siqing.
Time: July 14
Place: National Centre for the Performing Arts
16 National Music Originality-“Rich Summer Fun” China Broadcasting Chinese Orchestra Young Performers Chamber Music Concert
Highlights
As everything flourishes and the heat of summer rises,
During the journey of midsummer, of course, there must be the accompaniment of Chinese music.
With ancient melodies resonating like a clear spring in the mountains, soothing the hotness of the soul.
Traveling through thousands of years, embarking on a poetic journey filled with rich summer delights.
Program list:
Celebratory Overture
Ode to the South
Mountain Whisper Fantasy
Autumn Thoughts
Colorful Clouds Amidst the Clouds
Red Sun
Beijing Flavor
Listening to the Rain
Scan the QR code to purchase tickets
Time: July 14
Place: Beijing Concert Hall
17 National Music on Trend Chinese Chamber Music Concert Series
Beijing Chinese Orchestra
Highlights
Outstanding young musicians from the Beijing Chinese Orchestra taking on the main roles in the performance.
This series of concerts has over a hundred shows, presenting a new voice of traditional Chinese national music in performance formats that resonate with the aesthetics of young people today.
The concert features a series of works that are adapted and arranged to suit the contemporary era, combining the trends of traditional national music performance with modern musical styles, bringing a unique beauty of Chinese culture to the audience.
Performance Program:
Chamber Ensemble: Joyful Echoes
Chamber Ensemble: Super Mario
Chamber Ensemble: Happy Poker
Chamber Ensemble: Market
Chamber Ensemble: New Life Begins
15-Minute Intermission
Chamber Ensemble: Blood and Heart
Chamber Ensemble: Pure Mind and Beneficial Spell (also known as The Smiling, Proud Wanderer in the Guanglingsan)
Chamber Ensemble: Dream Chaser
Chamber Ensemble: Do You Know?
Chamber Ensemble: A Chinese Ghost Story
Chamber Ensemble: Beautiful Spring
Scan the QR code to purchase tickets
Time: July 10
Place: Musicfans Art Space
18 Children's Play: The Little Mermaid
China Puppet Art Theatre
The following video is provided by the WeChat official account of the China Puppet Art Theatre.
Highlights
This play is an adaptation of Danish author Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale The Little Mermaid. The story, known for its poignant beauty, is brought to life on stage, allowing the audience to relive the purity and emotional depth of the original tale.
The production has garnered several accolades, including a nomination for the Third Beijing Spiritual Civilization Construction “Ten One Project,” the “Outstanding New Play Award” at the Beijing New Play (Program) Awards, and recognition as an “Excellent Showcase Play” at the Third China Children's Theater Festival.
In terms of puppetry, specially designed soft puppets move with agility, resembling real fish swimming in the sea. They are closely connected to the storyline, creating an immersive experience for the audience in the mysterious and beautiful underwater world.
Time: July 13-14
Place: China Puppet Art Theatre
19 Children's Play: A Cat’s Legend in the Forbidden City
China National Theatre for Children, The Palace Museum
Highlights
The musical play A Cat’s Legend in the Forbidden City is adapted from the eponymous picture book. It tells the story of a little cat named “Baobei’er” who, due to a special twist of fate and a deep longing for human companionship, travels through time and becomes a cat named “Xiaodongxi” in the Forbidden City. In the present day, the Forbidden City has transformed into the Palace Museum, and “Xiaodongxi” searches for the companions who once accompanied it and seeks its own sense of belonging.
The play is composed and musically directed by renowned composer Li Haiying, known for his works such as The Curved Moon and Song of Seven Sons. It is created by Feng Li, the president of the China Children's Art Theater and a national-level playwright, along with Jiao Gang, a national-level director, and many other talented creators. The play features a strong cast of actors from the China Children's Art Theater, spanning different generations. With the story of the “Cat God”as its core, the play showcases the Palace Museum, representing Chinese historical civilization and traditional culture, to audiences of all ages worldwide. It ignites curiosity and longing for Chinese outstanding traditional culture, with the Palace Museum as its representative.
Time: July 9-14
Place: China National Theatre for Children
20. Special Performance of New Cross-talk Works
Beijing Traditional Folk Arts Troupe
Highlights
Seven original Cross-talk pieces.
Focused on realistic themes.
Reflects contemporary life and spirit.
Humorous, entertaining, and educational.
Time: July 13
Place: Cultural Palace of Nationalities Grand Theatre
This Week's Top Picks
Monday, July 8th:
Beijing Quju Opera Troupe: Immersive Beijing Quju Opera Teahouse
WOTAN Woodwind Quintet: Totoro Forest - World Famous Music Concert
Tuesday, July 9th
Xiao•Theatre Troupe: Children's Play MENG II
Beijing Magic Flute Cultural Media Co., Ltd., Beijing He Guang Yue Lai Culture Co., Ltd.
Drama: Yu Shizhi’s Family Letters
“The Bruckner Code”: Lv Jia and the National Centre for the Performing Arts Orchestra performing Bruckner's Fifth Symphony Concert
Wednesday, July 10
Star Theatre: Drama The Bystander Report
Nanjing University Master of Arts Theatre Troupe: Drama The Last Promise
Zhejiang Taizhou LuanTan Theatre Troupe: Luan an Opera The Star Chaser
Thursday, July 11:
Jingju Theater Company of Beijing: Peking Opera The Matchmaker
China-France Culture Exchange: Bonjour, Little Monster! Award-Winning European Animation with Vocal Effects and Accompaniment Concert
Film The Chorus Original Performer - French Saint-Marc Children's Choir Concert
Friday, July 12:
Beijing Fushouli Culture Communication Co., Ltd. (Huang Ying Studio): Drama Confucius — What Are We Really Talking About When We Talk About Confucius?
National Centre for the Performing Arts Drama Troupe: Play A Midsummer Night's Dream (Forest Theater Edition)
The Nine: Drama Spring's End
Jingju Theater Company of Beijing: Peking Opera Yang Silang Visits His Mother
Saturday, July 13:
DramaX, Chinese Dreams, Beijing Performance & Arts Group: Drama The Great Detective Zhao Gan'e 2
Happy Mahua: Drama Happy Liaozhai: Three Lives Immersive Edition
Meng Guanglu, Qu Mo: Peking Opera Meeting the Queen and Striking the Dragon Robe
West End Philharmonic Small Symphony Orchestra: Der Elefantenpups— German Original Picture Book Enlightenment Symphony Concert
Sunday, July 14:
Redefine: Drama What Do You Usually Do?
The Northern Kunqu Opera Theatre: Kunqu Opera Journey to the West: The Monkey King
Beijing Musicians Association Children's Choir: Happy Holidays Childhood Echoes 2024 Summer Children's Choir Audio-Visual Concert
Return to the Mountains Feng Mantian Ruanxian Concert
For more show options, explore further selections.
Large-scale event
01 Joker Xue “Extraterrestrial” World Tour Concert
Highlights
The “Extraterrestrial” concert tour by Joker Xue is named after his 11th album. It started in Suzhou in 2021, blossomed in 2023, and will once again travel to more fans in 2024.
The concert takes audiences on a musical adventure from the perspective of "extraterrestrials," leading earthlings to reconnect with their inner selves. It subtly conveys the singer's attitude towards life, inspiring the audience's longing and anticipation for a better life.
From 2023 to early 2024, Joker Xue maintained a rhythm of performing in one city every week. According to statistics, by the end of March 2024, Joker Xue’s “Extraterrestrial” tour had landed in 9 countries and 47 cities, with a total of 89 shows and over 2.7 million fans on board! In terms of stage design, “Extraterrestrial” seamlessly blends a hardcore futuristic aesthetic with various stadiums, creating an authentic and breathtaking space experience. It was honored with the Platinum Award at the 2023 MUSE Design Awards. The tour includes many of Joker Xue’s classic hits such as Serious Snow, Actor, Ugly, and Just Right, which are widely known and loved. It also satisfies the fervent expectations of “Xue's friends” with new songs like Countless, Turning Trash into Treasure, and Idea. The unprecedented scene of tens of thousands of people singing together frequently goes viral!
Time: July 12-14
Place: National Stadium
02 2024 “When We Talk About Love” Fish Leong World Tour Concert
Highlights
Fish Leong released her debut album Growing Up Overnight in 1999. Since then, she has released personal albums such as I Like Sunrise, Beautiful, and Wings of Love, which have been loved by fans. Starting from March 2015, she began holding concert tours, using music to express her insights into life and conveying romance and happiness through her singing. Every song becomes more meaningful with a story.
Fish Leong's classic love songs have always accompanied us, from our youth and innocence to the awakening of love. They have witnessed the stages of falling in love, being deeply in love, and experiencing heartbreak. From joy to sadness and eventually finding solace, Fish Leong captures the most genuine emotions in every stage of our lives. We believe that her return this time will bring us more surprises.
With a newly upgraded lighting stage and high production standards, Fish Leong will sing the best love songs for you. Over the past twenty years, she has witnessed a generation's growth and maturity. Fish Leong's love songs have accompanied us through the joys and sorrows of each season, and as we have matured through the changes in relationships, we will see a Fish Leong who has experienced twenty years of growth and whose wisdom has reached perfection in the "When We Talk About Love" tour.
Time: July 13-14
Place: Huaxi LIVE · Wukesong
Movie recommendation
01 Chocolate and Butter Sculpture
Release Date: July 9th
Highlights
Chocolate and Butter Sculpture, a light-hearted road movie produced by Zhang Ji, directed and written by Chen Yingxin, starring Meng Gun and Zhao Ziyi, with special appearances by Che Yongli and Huang Junpeng, will be released nationwide on July 9th. The film tells the story of two 12-year-old boys from different backgrounds who meet while traveling alone on the western plateau of China and help each other complete their respective journeys.
In Chocolate and Butter Sculpture, the two boys embark on a journey—one to relieve pressure from his parents, and the other to pursue his dreams for the future. Through a series of experiences on the road, they establish a beautiful and genuine friendship that is deeply moving. The film not only showcases the natural beauty of places like Ganzi, Aba, and Qinghai but also brings traditional cultural elements such as Gantong Thangka, Tashilhunpo Monastery's butter sculptures, and the Hainan Tibetan Coming-of-Age Ceremony to the big screen, presenting a beautiful fusion of human artistry and natural landscapes. Through the growth of the two main characters, the film reflects on the questioning of the adult society, introspection on the prevailing trend of "overwork culture," and contemplation of the ultimate pursuit of life... This thought-provoking core that touches the soul is worth the audience's empathy and reflection.
Art Exhibitions
01 Where are the Mythologies: A Fantastical Adventure in the Ancient Cosmos
Today Works, July 13 - October 13
Highlights
Where are the Mythologies: A Fantastical Adventure in the Ancient Cosmos will have its first exhibition in China at the Today Art Museum in Beijing from July 13th to October 13th. Using cutting-edge digital technologies such as MR (Mixed Reality) and interactive imaging, the exhibition will recreate the magnificent world of ancient Chinese mythology, providing visitors with a multi-sensory and highly immersive experience.
Mythology represents a common root of literature, history, philosophy, religion, politics, and art. It embodies humanity's way of understanding the external world and expressing its spirit, making it an indispensable part of cultural development. Chinese culture has long been influenced by mythological thinking, concepts, and beliefs, and the evolution of Chinese mythology is a product of ancient people's faith and imagination.
This exhibition traces the historical origins of Chinese mythology and explores the meta-language of mythological philosophy, the cosmic model, the philosophy of time, space, and life. Through visual presentations of the origin and development of mythology, the exhibition showcases the birth of Chinese mythological stories, the emotional relationships they generate, and their dialogue with modern technology across time, dimensions, and disciplines. With the power of mythology, the exhibition aims to help visitors discover themselves in the world of gods and to reexamine the meaning of love, growth, and the significance of life through mythology.
02 Erasing and Reimagining Sixty Years—Research Exhibition of Zhong Han’s Art
Art Museum of Beijing Fine Art Academy, June 28 - August 11
Highlights
As the 64th project of the "Chinese Masters of 20th Century Art Series Exhibition" by the Beijing Fine Art Academy, this exhibition will highlight Zhong Han's identity as a "scholarly painter" and showcase his achievements in artistic creation and theoretical research, exploring the process of his oil painting creation and artistic context.
“Erasing and Reimagining ” refers to Zhong Han's creative approach of repeatedly modifying and reworking artworks on the same subject, reflecting both the changes in artistic techniques and the transformation of his state of mind. Zhong Han graduated from the Oil Painting Research Class of the Central Academy of Fine Arts in 1963 and passed away in 2023, spanning exactly six decades. This exhibition is selected as part of the "2024 National Museum Collection Exhibition Season" by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and will display over 80 newly acquired works, sketches, and manuscripts of Zhong Han's oil paintings from the Beijing Fine Art Academy's collection. It will also showcase painting tools and materials collected by the Chinese Oil Painting Society, providing a vivid and comprehensive presentation of Zhong Han's artistic journey to the audience.
Still in Mind 170x340cm
Oil on canvas, 2010-2020, Collection of Beijing Fine Art Academy
Scenery of the Northland (Chairman Mao's Arrival in Northern Shaanxi)
28x54cm, Watercolor on paper, Collection of Beijing Fine Art Academy
Warm Winter 160x190cm
Oil on canvas, 2003, Collection of Beijing Fine Art Academy
03 LifeCode –Han Meilin Chinese Zodiac Art exhibition
Han Meilin Art Museum June 25th - September 1st
Highlights
“The zodiac signs in the sky hold secrets, with the rat, ox, tiger, and rabbit bringing emotions to the human world.”
The “Han Meilin Chinese Zodiac Art Exhibition” series has been held since 2019, and has been showcased at various venues including the Palace Museum in Beijing, the China Cultural Center in Bangkok, the Nanshan Museum in Shenzhen, the Haikou Exhibition Workshop, and the Qingdao Art Museum. As the sixth stop of the "Han Meilin Chinese Zodiac Art Exhibition," this exhibition will return to the Han Meilin Art Gallery in Beijing, inviting visitors to explore their own “life code” in the “maze.”
This exhibition not only showcases Han Meilin's distinctive Chinese zodiac art pieces but also combines trendy exhibition modes to provide a close and immersive interactive experience. It initiates the "Exhibition + Art Education + Exploration" joyful summer program. During the exhibition, visitors can also participate in "Meilin Art Education" courses, "Meilin Art Education" parent-child carnival, Han Meilin art experience market, and other multidimensional art experiences.
For more details, follow the “show grab fresh to see” mini program.
