Shanghai Grand Theatre unveiled its 2026-27 season, headlined by the only stop on the Chinese mainland for The Phantom of the Opera featuring a specially invited star cast.

Themed "Here & Now", the season spans plays, musicals, dance, and concerts, aiming to create one-of-a-kind artistic experiences.

The original production of The Phantom of the Opera will return to Shanghai from Sept 29 to Dec 27 for its 40th-anniversary farewell season. Ramin Karimloo will star as the Phantom. The production includes nearly 130 cast, crew, and orchestra members, as well as more than 230 handmade costumes.

My Fierce Ignorant Step, choreographed by Greek artist Christos Papadopoulos, will make its Asian premiere on Oct 16 and 17.

Two stage adaptations will receive their China premieres in 2027. Four Weddings and a Funeral, adapted from the British romantic comedy film, will run from Jan 8 to 10. The original musical Sympathy for Lady Vengeance, based on the final film in South Korean director Park Chan-wook's vengeance trilogy, will follow in June.

Several popular productions will also continue or return during the season. The Chinese-language musical The Brothers Karamazov, produced by Shanghai Grand Theatre and West Bund Theatre, will return to the Drama Theatre in April and May 2027.

The immersive suspense production Inside No. 9, which has already logged more than 600 performances with total attendance exceeding 50,000, will continue its run. The Strauss Capelle Vienna will also present its 2027 New Year's Concert.

The dance drama Qiu Ci, featured at China Media Group's 2026 Spring Festival Gala, will be staged in late August. It brings to life the music and dance depicted in ancient Kucha grotto murals.

The One-Man-Show Classical Recital Series will return with eight concerts featuring solo recitals, chamber music, and vocal performances by established and emerging artists from China and abroad.

Beyond its performances, Shanghai Grand Theatre will host free themed exhibitions in its public spaces and continue to refresh its themed merchandise.

See the calendar below for the full schedule.

Sources: Jiefang Daily, Shanghai Grand Theatre