The West Bund Theatre unveiled its 2025 Flourishing Summer & Autumn performance season on May 20. This season promises nearly 40 productions from both domestic and international artists, with a total of over 100 performances across various forms of performing arts.

The season is divided into two chapters: "rising winds" and "flowing waters". The "rising winds" segment opens with the Chinese original musical The Message, adapted from the novel by Mao Dun Literature Prize winner Mai Jia. This production will have a limited-time residency at the theatre starting in September. Additionally, the renowned Berliner Ensemble, founded by playwright and theatrical performer Bertolt Brecht, will present The 3 Penny Opera in November, marking its Asian premiere.

The "flowing waters" segment will showcase boundary-pushing and inclusive stage forms. The Chinese original musical The Legend of 1900, adapted from the novel by the versatile contemporary Italian writer Alessandro Baricco, will set sail from the theater in July. In August, the dance drama Tian Gong Kai Wu, or The Exploitation of the Works of Nature, directed by Lu Chuan, will portray the life of Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) inventor Song Yingxing, using ancient aesthetics as its creative lens.

The season also includes four distinctive series: dimensional universe, oriental aesthetics, family fun, and dragonfly project.

• Dimensional universe: Utilizes sound and light to guide audiences through multi-dimensional animated concerts, along with performances based on popular games' entertainment properties.
• Oriental aesthetics: Highlights the artistic charm of Eastern culture. The Ningbo Xiaobaihua Yueju Opera Troupe will perform classics like Dream of the Red Chamber. Renowned musician Ivana Wong will collaborate with the Shanghai Symphony Orchestra to present a symphonic poem blending Eastern and Western music.
• Family fun: Offers joyful performances perfect for the whole family, bringing a colorful, childlike summer to audiences.
• Dragonfly project: Features select outstanding works from the Wuzhen Theatre Festival, providing audiences with innovative theatrical experiences.

Sources: West Bund Theatre, Shanghai Observer