The opening performance of the 11th Shanghai International Comedy Festival, Today's Name is Shanghai, will take the stage at the Lyceum Theatre this November.

Written by young playwright Xia Tianheng and directed by Yu Jie, deputy head of the Shanghai Farce Troupe, the production reflects the creativity and insight of the post-1980s generation. Together, the duo captures the city's lively diversity and the warmth that defines its people.

The upgraded cast features first-class actor Zhang Xiaodong and second-class actor Shen Yuan, both acclaimed for their performances in numerous Shanghai Farce Troupe classics. Joining them are international influencers Tobias Le Compte and Cleo Luden, whose participation brings a dynamic cross-cultural dimension to the show and paves the way for fresh comedic expression.

The story unfolds in an old Shanghai apartment building, home to residents from around the world. Their varied languages and cultural nuances spark a series of humorous encounters. The climax of the show involves the preparation of an international New Year's Eve dinner, which highlights the Chinese Spring Festival tradition of family reunion, allowing international guests in Shanghai to feel the warmth of home.

If you go

When:

• Nov 13 and 14 at 7:30 pm
• Nov 15 and 16 at 2 pm

Venue: Lyceum Theatre, No 57 South Maoming Road, Huangpu district

Ticket price: 180 yuan ($25.25) to 580 yuan

Scan the QR code below to purchase tickets.

Source: Shanghai Farce Troupe