The AIA Grand Theatre, sitting on the northern stretch of the Bund, is a significant cultural landmark in Shanghai's Hongkou district.

The AIA Grand Theatre. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_012a88a591a8]

Opened in September 2023, the theater is part of the AIA Financial Centre, a comprehensive complex featuring a super-grade-A office building, a retail section, and the grand theatre itself.

AIA Grand Theatre is part of the AIA Financial Centre. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_012a88a591a8]

The AIA Grand Theatre spans 14,000 square meters across three above-ground levels and two underground levels.

The design concept is inspired by an "artistic treasure box", symbolizing the gathering of cultural and artistic treasures from around the world. The building features transparent glass walls that offer panoramic views of the bustling commercial district and iconic landmarks along the Huangpu River.

With a seating capacity of 1,715, the theatre hosts a variety of performances ranging from musicals to stage plays, concerts, and shows for children.

The 1,700-seater AIA Grand Theatre is the largest professional theatre in the inner ring of North Shanghai. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_012a88a591a8]

The inaugural show, Andrew Lloyd Webber's Love Never Dies, marked the beginning of a diverse program lineup that includes international productions like Chicago from the United States and Anna Karenina from Russia as well as Chinese musical productions like Lost in the Stars.

The AIA Grand Theatre aims to be a hub for cultural exchange and artistic expression, nurturing local talent and fostering arts appreciation in the North Bund area.

Through partnerships with professional organizations and educational institutions, the theatre offers workshops and educational programs that are designed to entertain audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

In addition to showcasing international and local productions, the theatre emphasizes accessibility by introducing affordable shows with ticket prices capped at 80 yuan ($11.03), encouraging more people to come and experience live theater.

Address: No 889 Dongdaming Road, Hongkou district

Transport: Metro Line 12, Tilanqiao Station

Box office service hours: 10 am-5:30 pm (on non-performance days); 10 am-8 pm (on performance days).

Ticket consultation: 021-6606-5558 (10 am-5 pm).

Sources: WeChat account of Shanghai Municipal Culture and Tourism Development Center via "gh_012a88a591a8", WeChat account of Shanghai Hongkou Poly Grand Theatre Management Co Ltd via "gh_a79ce8492ec5", shhk.gov.cn, whlyj.sh.gov.cn, chinadaily.com.cn