The Rising Artists' Works program of the 24th China Shanghai International Arts Festival has unveiled its 2025 edition, featuring eight commissioned works, one recommended piece, and 31 invited projects.

Established in 2012, the program has become a leading platform in China for incubating original artistic creations. It offers comprehensive support to young artists, guiding them through the entire process from incubation and creation to performance and international promotion.

Now in its 13th year, the program is introducing several first-time initiatives. These include a newly launched "fusion" submission category, the participation of an all-international creative team, the addition of master mentorship sessions, and the formation of a new arts panel.

"Fusion" has emerged as the keyword of the year. The new category encourages young artists to transcend disciplinary boundaries and spark creativity through cross-professional, cross-disciplinary, and cross-field exploration.

This year's festival showcases a vibrant lineup of outstanding performances by both domestic and international artists. The Rite of Spring by Cheng Long from the Institute of Dance at Zhejiang Conservatory of Music was selected as the program's only dance work. Other highlights include the multi-sensory performance Traces of the Wind, the electronic music theater The Sonic Odyssey: Mariners' Resonance, the commissioned experimental Sichuan opera Furong Grand Hotel, and a series of invited works, such as thematic concerts, the Sino-British youth digital creativity exhibition, and contemporary circus theater, all offering audiences a feast of innovation and artistic diversity.

In 2023, the program opened its commissioned work solicitation to young artists worldwide for the first time. This year marks the debut of the first project entirely proposed and created by an international group of young artists. The commissioned work Ukupacha — Rituals & Rhythms: A Journey Through Time and Culture integrates traditional Afro-Andean music from South America through skillful use of instruments like the cajon and Andean panpipes, showcasing the resilience and collective memory of Afro-Latin culture. The piece is performed by the Afro-Andean Funk band.

The program continues its Belt and Road-themed showcase, aiming to explore shared cultural elements among participating countries, support thematic artistic creations, and promote the cultivation of artistic talent. The historic Radu Stanca National Theatre in Sibiu, Romania, returns with the female-themed drama Mother in the invited section, marking the fourth appearance of the theatre's work in Shanghai.

Over the years, the program has developed a comprehensive system for artistic growth, spanning creative incubation, financial and resource support, professional guidance, debut performances, and international exchange and promotion. The newly formed arts panel comprises 21 leading figures from seven countries and regions, including Oliver Reese, artistic director of the Berliner Ensemble, and Tan Dun, composer and conductor.

The program also introduces master mentorship sessions, launching a one-on-one incubation mechanism and shifting its support model from "broad coverage" to in-depth cultivation. It will feature a series of events, such as art lectures and thematic dialogues for young art enthusiasts. By calling for original works that demonstrate artistic insight and innovative spirit, the Rising Artists' Works program continues to inspire young artists from around the world to step onto the stage.

Sources: Shanghai Observer, official website of the China Shanghai International Arts Festival