As Chinese Valentine's Day, also known as the Qixi Festival, approaches on Aug 10, behold the captivating offerings that await you and your beloved at Shanghai theaters.

 

Maybe Happy Ending

A poster for Maybe Happy Ending. [Photo/WeChat account of Shanghai Culture Square via SCS_Ticketing]

Immerse yourself in the romantic comedy Maybe Happy Ending, where Oliver's connection with his robot neighbor Claire evolves from friendship to love. This acclaimed South Korean musical explores a narrative where artificial intelligence wrestles with human emotions in a near-future backdrop.

Venue: Shanghai Culture Square

Time: Aug 8-9, 7:30 pm; Aug 10, 2 pm/7:30 pm

 

Dance of Calligraphy in 353 AD

The Shanghai Opera House presents Yonghe Jiunian or Dance of Calligraphy in 353 AD, a mesmerizing production inspired by Lantingji Xu (Preface to the Collection of Poems of the Orchid Pavilion), which is a prose by 4th-century calligrapher Wang Xizhi. After touring nationwide, this dance drama will return to Shanghai in August.

Venue: Shanghai Culture Square

Time: Aug 9-11, 7:30 pm

 

Swan Lake

A scene from Swan Lake. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaiballet]

In August, the Shanghai Ballet is set to dazzle audiences with a vibrant lineup featuring timeless classics like Swan Lake and The White Haired Girl at esteemed venues throughout China. Don't miss their rendition of the iconic Swan Lake in Shanghai.

Venue: Grand Theater of the Shanghai International Dance Center

Time: Aug 10, 7:30 pm; Aug 11, 2 pm

 

Heisenberg

Heisenberg tells a captivating story about surprising connections and emotional journeys. With skilled actors, the play reveals a special bond between Georgie and Alex as they embark on a heartfelt quest.

Venue: Theatre Young Green Box

Time: Aug 9-11, 2 pm/7:30 pm

 

Slava's Snowshow

Immerse yourself in the magical world of Slava's Snowshow, where tragicomedy meets metaphysical clowning. Watch adults turn into gleeful children, experiencing pure joy and wonder. This enchanting performance promises to warm hearts and evoke cherished childhood memories.

Venue: AIA Grand Theatre

Time: Aug 7-9, 7:30 pm; Aug 10-11, 2 pm/7:30 pm

 

Madama Butterfly

A poster for the opera Madama Butterfly. [Photo/Shanghai Grand Theatre Arts Group]

Madama Butterfly, a joint Chinese-UK production by the Shanghai Opera House, the Royal Opera House of the UK, and the Shanghai Grand Theatre, stars Chinese soprano He Hui. This show is also being held in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Giacomo Puccini's death (1858-1924).

Venue: Shanghai Grand Theatre

Time: Aug 9-10, 7:15 pm; Aug 11, 2 pm

 

Ruan Concert

Witness the talent of Wang Yiwen, Leng Yujin, Sun Qi, and Lan Xuefei at Shangyin Opera House's orchestral rehearsal hall. The ruan is a traditional Chinese plucked string instrument, featuring a fretted neck, circular body, and four strings.

Venue: Shangyin Opera House

Time: Aug 10, 7:30 pm

 

Vasily Petrenko and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Vasily Petrenko will join forces with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, together with Chinese-Australian violinist Ray Chen, to bring a feast for the ears on Aug 10-11!

Venue: Shanghai Concert Hall

Time: Aug 10-11, 7:30 pm

 

Sources: Venues mentioned above, slavasnowshow.com, Shanghai Grand Theatre Arts Group, "shanghaiyinxie" WeChat account