Chinese musical East Ski will have its global premiere at North Bund AIA Grand Theatre in Shanghai on November 14, featuring rapper Sun Yang, better known by his stage name Zao An, in the leading role.

Produced by leading rap music company Dream Music Group and co-hosted by Shanghai FTZ International Culture Investment and Development Co Ltd and Nine Trees Future Art Center tickets for the premiere of East Ski will go on sale on Oct 14.

The musical employs a dramatic structure to narrate a story set in ancient China, a time marked by political instability, warfare, and conflicts.

With a stage design that merges Eastern aesthetics with a contemporary Chinese vibe, it combines traditional Chinese culture with hip-hop pop culture.

In addition to showcasing musical styles such as Boombap, Trap, traditional Chinese music, modern pop music, rock, and medieval classical music, East Ski also incorporates a range of dance forms, including classical, ethnic, and folk dances.

The lead performer, Zao An, has won several hip-hop music reality shows and competitions, including being the champion of the second season of Rap Star in 2021, a TV show by Mango TV. Alongside Zao An, Chinese rappers such as Gai, Vava, and Air, who have garnered a substantial fan base among Chinese music enthusiasts, will also play roles in the musical.

Following six performances in Shanghai, the musical will embark on a nationwide tour in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, and Qingdao, Shandong province.