That's Shanghai takes a look at the best of the month:
May 31-June 1: La Bayadere and Swan Lake
Award winning dancer Oxana Skorik and fellow Mariinsky Ballet principal and Yevgeny Ivanchenko joins members of one of the Ukraine’s oldest dance companies, National Opera and Ballet Theater, for performances of the classic La Bayadere (Tuesday) and Swan Lake (Wednesday).
May 31-June 1, 7.15pm, RMB180-880. Shanghai Oriental Art Center, tickets.
June 1–5: Latin American and Caribbean Food Festival
Master chefs converge at the Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai for an extravagant celebration of Latin American flavors. Ten countries will be represented by two signature dishes, like Chef Osmani’s Cuban ceviche and beef stew and Chef Jose’s chili relleno from Mexico. Latin-themed lunches, dinners and a Sunday brunch will be served, with the event’s centerpiece taking place Saturday – a full day fiesta with live music and a mission for guests to fill their culinary passport.
June 1-5, various times and prices. Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai.
Fiesta: June 4, noon-10pm, RMB300 (with 20 meal passes and two drinks). Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai.
June 2: Prince 85
Yeti brings the mysterious Parisian artist to Le Baron. An affiliate of The Weeknd’s XO Collective, Prince 85 has produced for Dipset, shared the decks with A–Trak and has spun banging sets for Drake’s OVO Sound Radio.
June 2, 10pm-late, free entry. Le Baron.
June 3: X-Men - Apocalypse
Another month, another Marvel cinematic spectacle. Weeks after the record-setting success of Captain America, the ninth installment in the X-Men series opens in China. James McAvoy and Jennifer Lawrence return as Professor X and Mystique, who must lead a young group of mutants against Oscar Isaac’s Apocalypse – a powerful ancient mutant that awakens with plans to take over the world with four powerful allies, including Michael Fassbender’s Magneto. The starstudded cast also includes Game of Thrones’ Sophie Turner and The Daily Show’s Olivia Munn, with a cameo by Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine promised.
June 3: Brawl on the Bund - Rumble in the Jungle
The social sporting event of the summer takes over Hyatt on the Bund. Don your finest black tie garb and join more than 1,000 people in cheering on the white collar warriors who have undergone three months of intensive boxing training. Proceeds go to A New Way to Eat (ANWTE), which focuses on nutrition outreach programs to primary school students. The official afterparty goes down at the eight-time reader-chosen That’s Shanghai Food & Drink Award winner for Club of the Year, Bar Rouge.
June 3, 7pm, RMB20,000 for a 10-seat table. Hyatt on the Bund, see event listing.
June 3, 10pm-late, RMB100 (free entry for Brawl on the Bund attendees).Bar Rouge.
June 3: Demerit
For 13 years, this Beijing group has been a leader in China’s punk scene. With releases on Maybe Mars and fresh off a 14-country tour of Europe, they’ll be raising hell across their homeland, bringing their national tour to Yuyintang.
June 3, 8.30-11.30pm, RMB50-70. Yuyintang.
June 3: Wang Wen
The Dalian post-rock group have been a potent force in Mainland indie rock since starting out in 1999. Last year, they toured Europe, performing at big festivals, and are touring the nation in support of their ninth disc, Sweet Home, Go! For more, check out our feature on Wang Wen.
June 3, 9-11pm, RMB100-150. MAO Livehouse.
June 3: Simbad
The latest Chic ‘n’ Pop party features the perpetually groovy DJ who counts Flying Lotus and Gilles Petersen as major fans. Despite sets that range from jazz and reggae to deep house and techno, Simbad has consistently wowed surprised crowds by never faking the funk. His 2012 disc Mala in Cuba was widely praised, and the London based producer has been in the lab with luminaries like Coldcut and the Nightslugs crew.
June 3, 10pm-late, free entry. UNICO by Mauro Colagreco.
June 3–5: Eco Design Fair
Presented by eco&more, the eighth edition of the Eco Design Fair takes over Lafayette Art and Design Center in time for World Environment Day. Over 150 local and international brands will participate, with talks and workshops led by the likes of eco fashion designers Joyce Wang and Tiffany Pattinson. On-site vendors USEDEM and the 4R + Swap Shop by Daliah will help visitors upcycle old items to give them new life. Other highlights include several art installations, an entire floor dedicated to kids’ activities, and a healthy food market featuring pop-ups by the likes of Hunter Gatherer, Pure & Whole and Zotter Organic Chocolate.
June 3-5, 1-8pm (Fri), 11am-8pm (Sat), 11am-6pm (Sun), RMB20. Lafayette Art and Design Center, see event listing.
June 3–5: Old Shanghai Film Weekend
Historic Shanghai celebrates the city’s legacy as the center of Chinese film. There will be visits to the Shanghai Film Museum and to the Shanghai Chedun Film Park, where guests can stroll through striking sets of old Shanghai. Film expert Linda Johnson curates and leads discussion on movies from the golden age of Shanghai film: 1922’s Labourer’s Love, the Ruan Lingyu-starring Goddess, Wang Renemi’s first film Wild Rose and the epic two-part Spring River Flows East.
More details on price and meeting point available by contacting info@historic–shanghai.com.
June 3–5: Le Petit Prince
For a decade, TNT Theatre has been staging Western theatrical classics across the Mainland. They’re doing something new with their first French language tour of Antoine de Saint–Exupéry’s beloved fairy tale. As usual, they’re adding their own unique stamp with an original score by Paul Flush. Phil Smith directs and Chinese subtitles will be screened. For more, check out our interview with TNT founder Paul Stebbings.
June 3-5, 7.30pm (Fri-Sat) and 2pm (Sat-Sun), RMB80–380. Lyceum Theatre, see event listing.
June 4: Race to Restore 5K
Three Shanghai based teachers have started this grassroots initiative designed to start a conversation on modern slavery. All profits from this 5K fundraiser will go to the Eden Ministry, an organization devoted to empowering women held captive across Asia’s red light districts. Awards will be given to the Top 3 Men, Women and Children finishers.
June 4, 8am-4pm, RMB150-200 (RMB100 for children under 12). Century Park: Gate 5.
June 4: The Great Australian BBQ
AustCham Shanghai and Australian Shanghai Association (ASA) with sponsors BlueScope present this family fun day in the sun. A bouncy castle and other fun activities will keep the kids active, while the Shanghai Dolphins Rugby Team, Shanghai Tigers Football Club and Bashers Cricket Club will take the field. Popular restaurants and bars will set up pop-up stalls, and Barefoot Portaits is offering free family portraits. Proceeds will go to Home to Home.
June 4, 10am-4pm，RMB60-100. Wellington College International Shanghai, see event listing.
June 4: Green Excursion to Ecoland Club
This special Shanghai Flaneur green excursion takes guests through one of the city’s nicest community projects. Founded by Dr. Pan Tao, who has served for organizations like the Clinton Foundation, the Ecoland Club is a community of like-minded people keen on having their children grow with a strong bond to nature. Tao will lead this walk while investigating other issues related to sustainability in Shanghai. Lunch will be served at the farm and the trip ends with a trip to the Eco Design Fair at Lafayette Art & Design Centre.
June 4, 10am-4pm, RMB200. Meet at eco&more (K11), see event listing.
June 4: 6th Annual Shanghai Barbecue Cook-off
It’s a double celebration as Bubba’s rings in a decade in the game with their always-popular and boozy barbecue cook-off. Ten teams will battle for the prize of Grand Master of the barbecue pit. This all-you-can-eat-and-drink festival features free samples from the competitors as well as a lively atmosphere that includes music from Rock Suey. Additional items are on the house courtesy of Bubba’s.
June 4, 11am-5pm, RMB300. Bubba’s Hongqiao, see event listing.
June 4: Mandarin Open House
This community gathering encourages guests to discover Shanghai by learning useful phrases essential for daily life. Expect to meet friendly people and get familiar with topics that have Chinese people buzzing from celebrity gossip to job hunting.
June 4, 1-3pm, free entry. Mandarin House.
June 4: Pat Metheny
The 20-time Grammy Award winner returns to Shanghai after headlining a recent JZ Festival. The iconic jazz guitarist performs with Antonio Sanchez, Linda Oh, Gwilym Simcock for a concert that dips into Metheny's legendary discography that incorporates everything from post-bop to Latin jazz. For more, check out our feature on the last days of JZ (and why it's coming back bigger and better).
June 4, 7pm, RMB180-1,280. Sennheiser Shanghai Concert Hall, tickets.
June 4: Salva
STD welcomes the LA producer to bring his hard-hitting bass sounds to Arkham. An alumni of the Red Bull Music Academy, Salva has laced tracks by current hip hop stalwarts like Young Thug and Schoolboy Q. Supporting him, is compatriot in arms, Hej Fund.
June 4, 10pm-late, RMBTBA. Arkham, see event listing.
June 4: Tzu Sing
The standout Shanghai producer celebrates the final release in his A Name Out of Place trilogy released on acclaimed New York label, L.I.E.S. Expect plenty of dark, edgy sounds with support from Shelter staples like Howell and more.
June 4, 10pm-late, RMB40. The Shelter.
June 6-19: Xintiandi Fringe
Already revered as the chic shopping heart of Shanghai, Xintiandi is emerging as a rising cultural hub. This month will mark the debut of the Xintiandi Fringe Festival. What started in 1947 with eight theater groups showing up univited to the inaugural Edinburgh International Festival has transformed into the world's largest arts festival with major cities around the world hosting their own versions. Curated by the award-winning Fringe Showcase organization, the inaugural edition of the Xintiandi Fringe features 17 performers from around the world taking over multiple spaces across Xintiandi.
June 7&10: Alpine Decline
Los Angeles transplants Jonathan Zeitlin and Pauline Mu have been fixtures in the Beijing underground for the past few years with a deal with renowned indie label, Maybe Mars to boot. The company's CEO (and P.K. 14's renowned frontman) Yang Haisong has joined the duo for their latest disc and their upcoming national tour. Compared to the group's past efforts, Life's a Gasp! prominently features the modular synth, with the duo of Zeitlin and Mu showcasing the instrument in select cities for special modular shows.
Modular show: June 7, 10pm-late, RMB30. The Shelter.
Live show: June 10, 9.30pm, RMB60-80. Yuyintang.
June 8: Warcraft
The massively popular video game series gets the cinematic treatment in what its producers are hoping will be the next great fantasy franchise. A decade in the making, Warcraft explores the conflict between orcs and humans. Toby Kebbell (Dawn of the Planet of the Apes) stars as the honorable orc leader Durotan leading his people from their dying world of Draenor to the world of Azeroth. However, Travis Fimmel (Vikings) stars as Anduin Lothar, leader of the humans fearing the sudden arrival of these fierce orc invaders. Paula Patton (Mission Impossible – Ghost Protocol) plays the halfhuman and half-orc Garona Halforcen who must decide where her loyalty lies.
June 8: Blessthefall
The Arizona metalcore group links with the popular Chinese metal magazine Painkiller for a Mainland tour. Shanghai stalwarts Before the Daylight opens with other supporting acts to be announced later.
June 8, 8pm, RMB180. MAO Livehouse, see event listing.
June 8: Kamixlo
Woozy Offline is bringing London’s hottest DJ to the subterranean depths of The Shelter. As a member of the influential Bala Club collective, Kamixlo has been praised by Vice and Dazed Digital for mixing rapid-fire reggaeton, bachata and cumbia with ear shattering bass. Howell, Ginga, Kilo Vee and Sleepless support.
June 8, 10pm-late, RMB60. The Shelter, see event listing.
June 8–12: Fun Home
East West Theatre is back with this tragicomic musical based on Alison Bechdel, which has been dubbed as “the first mainstream musical about a young lesbian.” Originally an off-Broadway production, the show has won multiple Tonys and a 2016 Grammy.
June 8-12, 8pm (Thurs-Sat) and 4pm (Sat-Sun), RMB160-200. The Market, 280 Aomen Lu, by Changhua Lu 澳门路280号, 近昌化路 (182 0216 4553, east.west.info@gmail.com)
June 9–11: MIDI Electronic Music Festival
Once again, The Mansion and MIDI team up for 48 hours of non-stop electronic music. Ellen Allien (pictured above) and Shanghai Restoration Project are the big international names announced so far, with China stalwarts like Conrank, Sulumi, Lindberg and James Lealand also on the bill. If you’re looking for a ride there, Dragon Events are offering round-bus transportation for RMB80, available at info@dragoneventschina.com.
June 9-11, 2-11pm, RMB180-200 (RMB300-380 for three-day pass). Taihu MIDI Camp.
June 10: Hockey Night in Shanghai
As part of the Shanghai Youth Hockey Festival, this exhibition game pits the best hockey players in Shanghai against each other. After representing the city in January’s 13th Chinese National Winter Games, Team Shanghai will take on Team World – comprised of some of the finest players in the Shanghai Ice Hockey League. Wear black if you’re Team Shanghai, or white if you’re Team World.
June 10, 7-9.30pm, RMB100-180. Feiyang Skating Center, see event listing.
June 10: Tina May
The award-winning singer may be based in the UK but she's been having a pronounced influence on Shanghai's ascending jazz scene. Singers Jonas Seetoh and Jade Lee studied with her at the famed Royal Welsh College of Music. In addition to this concert, May will be holding a masterclass for students at the JZ School.
June 10, 7pm, RMB180-1,280. Sennheiser Shanghai Concert Hall, tickets.
June 10: DJ Krush
Since discovering hip hop in 1983 through Wild Style, DJ Krush has pioneered a jazzinfluenced strain that’s made him an icon on par with collaborators like DJ Shadow. The Japanese producer returns to Arkham to support The Butterfly Effect, his first proper album in 13 years.
June 10, 10pm-late, RMB100-200. Arkham.
June 10–11: Brad Williams
Discovered while attending a Carlos Mencia show, Brad Williams has carved out a distinctive career, impressing on The Tonight Show and outshining icons like Bill Burr and Bob Saget during Kevin and Bean’s April Foolishness comedy showcases. Comedy legend Robin Williams has dubbed him “Prozac with a head,” and Showtime released the rising comedian’s first one-hour comedy special last year, Brad Williams: Fun Size.
June 10-11, 8.30pm (Fri), 8pm and 10pm (Sat), RMB170-200. Kung Fu Komedy Club, see event listing.
June 10–11: Cosplay!
The boys and girls in Qi-POW! embrace their sexy nerdy sides in their latest burlesque cabaret. Expect show-stopping circus arts, scandalous dancing and a tongue-in-cheek after-school homage to everything geeky in pop culture.
June 10-11, 9pm-late, RMB180-200. The Pearl.
June 10-July 10: UEFA Euro Championship
24 teams will be competing for European football supremacy in France and you can expect plenty of the city's sports bars to be showing the games. For more, check out our series where we profile Shanghai fans from all 24 countries taking part in the tournament.
June 11: Jack Ma - Icon or Icarus
The latest M Talk looks at the Alibaba founder’s story, rising from humble origins in Hangzhou to become one of the most powerful entrepreneurs in the world today. Duncan Clark, a China-based investment banker who left Morgan Stanley to start leading advisory firm BDA China, shares insight from his newly released book, Alibaba: The House That Jack Ma Built.
June 11, 4pm, RMB75 (with one drink). Glam, see event listing.
June 11: IAMNOBODI
Arkham welcomes the Soulection affiliate who has toured with Cashmere Cat and remixed the likes of TDE’s Ab Soul. Known for his soulful rhythms and hypnotic basslines, IAMNOBODI is making a lie out of his name as his unique productions have become increasingly hard to ignore.
June 11, 10pm-late, RMBTBA. Arkham, see event listing.
June 11-19: Shanghai International Film Festival
Sir Ian McKellen and Benedict Cumberbatch will be among the stars to walk the red carpet at the 19th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF). With hundreds of films screening across the city from June 11-19, China’s largest film festival is full of highlights for even the pickiest of cinephiles. Retrospective programmes pay tribute to Russian director Andrei Tarkovsky, beloved Hong Kong actor James Bond, Shakespeare on Film and much more. This year's Academy Award winner for Best Film, Spotlight, highlights recent award-winners to make their official debut on Shanghai screens and there are plenty of hidden gems from all over the world to discover. Stay tuned for our SIFF preview.
June 11-19, various locations, RMB40-60 per ticket. For more information, visit www.siff.com.
June 12: Plague Festival
Nanchang has been the unlikely heart of China’s growing folk metal scene thanks to the efforts of indie record label, Pest Productions. While their founder Eight notes that they’re bigger in Europe than at home, they’re celebrating their landmark 10th anniversary with a festival showcase at Q.S.W. Culture Center. The explosive bill features Avulsed (pictured), Explosium, Persecuted, Hell Fire and D.S.A.R.
June 12, 7pm, RMB120-150. Q.S.W. Culture Center.
June 14–15: Sabor Fusion Shanghai
Michelin starred chefs from Spain will team with local masterchefs in this cultural and gastronomic exchange. Seminars, competitions and tastings are among the activities that promise to showcase the latest trends in Eastern and Western creative cooking.
June 14–15, 9am-7pm, RMB288. Shanghai International Convention and Exhibition Center, see event listing.
June 15: Henry Padovani
The Intriguing Corsicon has enjoyed a wonderfully weird career. He co-founded The Police with Stewart Copeland and Sting, only to get the boot before the group found stardom. Don’t feel bad for the guitarist – he’s since started acclaimed bands like The Flying Pandovanis, co-founded IRS Records (first home to R.E.M.) and found stardom in France as a judge on the X-Factor. He’s bringing his world tour to UNICO to support his newest solo disc.
June 15, 10pm-late, free entry. UNICO by Mauro Colagreco, see event listing.
June 15-16: Dong Dong Showcase
Upcoming European and Chinese bands team up in this series of national concerts. For the inaugural Shanghai showcase, French electro rockers Success team up with the eerily similarly named Undress for Success on June 15. The next night, young French rockers Last Train, who boast a powerful sound that has traces of Black Sabbath, team up with hometown raconteurs Dirty Fingers.
June 15-16, 8.30pm, RMB80-100. Yuyintang.
June 16: Shanghai Disney Opening
It’s finally here. After years of anticipation, Disney opens its sixth resort worldwide and first on the Mainland. Boasting the world’s largest and most interactive Disney Castle, the opening of the House of Mouse is going to have a major effect on Shanghai, with expectations that the park will attract 10 million visitors a year. We managed to snag some pre-opening passes and were certainly impressed, especially by the awesome TRON Lightcycle Power Run rollercoaster.
June 16-forever?, RMB444. Shanghai Disney, Chuansha Town, Pudong 浦东新区川沙镇
June 16–18: Omnivore Shanghai
This global gourmand festival returns to Shanghai for the fifth year. Fourteen international chefs will share their secrets during afternoon masterclasses on June 17-18. There are also ‘four hands’ dinners on June 16-17, featuring visiting French chefs Fred Peneau and Charles Pelletier of Serge et le Phoque, as well as Florent Ladeyn of Le Vert Mont (Thurs) and Australian chefs Josh Niland of Saint Peter, Sydney and Bao La of Le Garçon Saigon, Hong Kong (Fri). The festival caps off on Saturday with the always popular Omnivorious party by Badoit that features 13 chefs including Shanghai stars like Ultraviolet’s Paul Pairet and Chi-Q’s Bina Yu serving up small concoctions or bouchées to guest in a chic Bund setting.
Pop-Up Dinner: June 16-17, 8pm, RMB600 (with five course menu and pop–up dinners). Three on the Bund.
Master Class: June 17-18, 11am-4.05pm, free entry (tickets required). Three on the Bund.
Omnivorious Party: June 18, 8.30pm, RMB200 (with eight bouchées and two drinks). Three on the Bund.
June 16–19: Madagascar Live!
The historic Majestic Theatre recently reopened in Jing’an and they are hosting this theatrical adaptation of the DreamWorks animated blockbuster. This action-packed show follows the adventures of Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra and more, as they escape from the zoo on a journey to King Julien’s Madgascar. Hit song ‘Move It, Move It’ will be performed along with a few extra originals added for this family friendly hit show.
June 16-19, 7.30pm (10.30am and 2.30pm), RMB180-880. Majestic Theatre.
June 17: Finding Dory
13 years after Finding Nemo, Pixar has finally crafted a follow-up. This one focuses on the lovable amnesiac Dory (voiced by Ellen Degeneres) who suddenly remembers a childhood in California. Eager to reunite with her family, she sets off on an adventure with appearances by the first film's Nemo, Marlin and the Tank Gang, as well as new characters like Bailey, a white beluga whale; Destiny, a whale shark, and Hank, an octopus.
June 17: Igor Butman Quartet
As leader of the Moscow Jazz Big Band, Butman has established himself as one of Russia's premier saxophonists. The St. Petersburg born virtuoso holds dual citizenship in the US and Russian Federation, serving as one of the most vocal proponents of his country's rich jazz scene.
June 17, 7pm, RMB180-1,280. Sennheiser Shanghai Concert Hall, tickets.
June 17: A$AP Nast
SHFT is bringing over the Harlem rhymer most poised to follow in the footsteps of fellow A$AP Mob members, A$AP Rocky and A$AP Ferg, into rap stardom. The 25-year-old first broke out with his 2013 Method Man collaboration, ‘Trillmatic.’ While fans are still patiently waiting for his debut, A$AP Nast has been keeping busy, recently popping up on his crew’s tribute to A$AP Yams, ‘Yamborghini High’ and guesting on Skepta’s ‘Ladies Hit Squad.’
June 17, 10pm-late, RMBTBA. Arkham, see event listing.
June 17–18: Shanghai 7s
This massive celebration of rugby kicks off with a nice long lunch at Le Royal Meridien featuring three former Springboks – Gary Teichmann (pictured above), Bob Skinstad and John Allan – sharing plenty of colourful anecdotes from life on the pitch. Tickets for that are available at www.thatsmags.com/shanghai and includes a three-course meal and free-flow Heineken, with proceeds supporting St. James Place. The next day, top teams from across Asia will compete for the coveted Shanghai 7s Cup.
Long Lunch: June 17, noon-4pm, RMB1,000 or RMB9,000 for table of 10. Le Royal Meridien, see event listing.
Shanghai 7s Tournament: June 18, 10am, free entry. Shanghai Rugby Football Club.
June 17–26: ShanghaiPRIDE 2016
The eighth edition of the Mainland’s longest-running Pride festival features a wide range of events from community workshops to arts programming (see pg47). The Asia LGBT Milestone Awards (ALMA) will participate for the first time and of course, the opening and closing parties promise to be wild and packed. Stay tuned for our full preview at www.thatsmags.com/shanghai.
June 17-26, various times and locations. For more details and full schedule, visit shpride.com or follow on WeChat (Shanghai_PRIDE) or e-mail shanghaipride@gmail.com
June 18: Yndi Halda
One of England's leading post-rock groups make their long-awaited return, finally releasing their sophomore disc a decade after their hallowed violin-driven debut. Under Summer expands Yndi Halda's sonic canvas, incorporating lyrics for the first time. For their return to China, frontman James Vella promises "we have four singers so we can really dig into the harmonies and the choral lines."
June 18, 9-10.30pm, RMB120-150. MAO Livehouse.
June 18: Steven Says
Back by popular demand, the comedic hypnotist returns to The Pearl with his dazzling, mind-blowing show. Be one of the brave 12-20 volunteers to be put under a trance where you may end up believing you are a supermodel or that you have forgotten how to drink water. Whether participating or watching, Steven Says will have you rolling on the floor with laughs.
June 18, 9pm-late, RMB150-200. The Pearl.
June 18: Xinobi and Dicky Trisco
The fourth edition of Yeti Dis:ko features two headliners. Portuguese house and disco producer Xinobi has worked with Toro Y Moi and Kitsune thanks to his deep soundscapes that can channel Miami summer parties as well as cold nights in Berlin. He’s joined by Disco Deviance’s Dicky Trisco who has made clubs around the world lose their minds with his always flavorful sets. Lindberg and Allan Marshall support.
June 18, 10pm-late, RMB90. Arkham.
June 18: Zion Train Meets Vibronics
The latest Crucial! party brings UK dub soundsystem culture to The Shelter with two undisputed pioneers in the game. Since forming in North London in 1990, Zion Train scored European hits like ‘Jah Holds the Key’ while continually fine-tuning their sound to great acclaim. For 20 years, Vibronics have been at the forefront of the UK’s roots and dub explosion, working with Jah Shaka soundsystem and collaborating with underground stars like The Mad Professor.
June 18, 10pm-late, RMB80. The Shelter.
June 18: Cut Killer
It’s a perfect pairing as Bar Rouge welcomes the French hip hop icon to the Bund. Since starting out in the early 90s, Cut Killer has DJed for MC Solaar and has been invited to perform in America by hip hop luminaries like Funkmaster Flex and 50 Cent’s Shadyville DJs.
June 18, 10pm-late, RMB100. Bar Rouge.
June 19: Father’s Day
Often overlooked, it’s time to give dad the appreciation he deserves (even if he isn’t Han Han). Restaurants across the city will be toasting papa with sumptuous meals. Get the full lowdown with our upcoming massive Father’s Day Guide. [For promoters, add your event through our User Center and include the title Father's Day to be included.]
June 19: Lambchop
For three decades, Kurt Wagner and friends have been writing their own chapter in Nashville's rich musical history as the self-proclaimed "most fucked up country band" in the city. Alternative country before that term existed, the group's sound has grown to encompass everything from jazz to avant-garde noise. Their show will be the closing concert for the second season of the Split Works and Shanghai Symphony Orchestra Contemporale collaboration. For more, check out our feature on Contemporale.
June 19, 7pm, RMBB80-180. Shanghai Symphony Orchestra - Chamber Hall.
June 20–21: Kurt Rosenwinkel
Widely praised as one of the finest jazz guitarists of the under-50 generation, Rosenwinkel returns to Shanghai after packing JZ Club with an impressive solo show last year. This time, he’s bringing his trio along to take over the Red Town favorite, On Stage.
June 20–21, 8.30pm, RMBTBA. On Stage.
June 23: Imagining America in 1950s and 60s Communist China
In this Royal Asiatic Society (RAS) lecture, scholar Andrew Kuech explores how the United States were depicted by the press in the age of Mao. The fascinating talk explores how the frequent condemnations of “American imperialists,” mobilized Chinese political society in ways such as the Chinese-led Third World solidarity movement.
June 23, 7-9pm, RMB100 (RMB70 for RAS members). Tavern, Radisson Plaza Xingguo Hotel.
June 23–26: Royal Danish Ballet
Established in 1748, the world’s third oldest ballet company remains one of the most acclaimed. They’ll be paying tribute to the legendary 19th century Danish choreographer Augus Bournoville with renditions of his 1842 masterpiece Napoli (Thurs-Fri) and his 1836 romance La Sylphide, as well as George Balanchine’s sublime 1947 tribute to classical ballet Theme and Variations (Sat-Sun).
June 23-26, 7.15pm, RMB280-1,280. Shanghai Oriental Art Center, see event listing.
June 24: Independence Day - Resurgence
20 years after the events of the alien invasion mega-hit, Earth has seemingly recovered with newly installed systems in place to warn of any impending attacks. However, what they don't know is that the alien survivors from the first film has already called in more help for an even bigger attack armed with a powerful gravitational machine. Will Smith is notably absent but most of the original cast are back with Liam Hemsworth starring as the brash but skilled fighter pilot. Also, Angelababy makes an appearance as a fighter pilot and lieutenant.
June 24: Now You See Me 2
Those vigilante magicians The Four Horsemen are back a year after the events of the 2013 hit film. This time they're out to expose a shady tech magnate. While Isla Fischer is out, Lizzy Caplan fills in her spot alongside returning actors Jesse Eisenberg, Mark Ruffalo and Dave Franco. Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine and Jay Chou round out the star-studded cast.
June 24: Shunza and Red Groove Project
The Golden Melody Award-winning singer-songwriter has built a global following thanks to her ballads and albums released in Mandarin, Japanese, English and French. However, Shunza never sounds more funky when she teams up with frequent collaborator Lawrence Ku, and his 10-piece Red Groove Project, who have established themelves as one of the most dancetastic groups in Shanghai with a sound that mixes everything from funk to reggae.
June 24, 7pm, RMB180-1,280. Sennheiser Shanghai Concert Hall, tickets.
June 24: God Is An Astronaut
Formed by twin brothers Niels and Torsten Kinsella in 2002, the instrumental quartet have become one of Ireland’s leading post-rock acts. Known for vibrant full audio/visual live show, they’re back in Shanghai to celebrate their sixth album, Helios/Erebus.
June 24, 8.30pm-late, RMB260. MAO Livehouse, see event listing.
June 24: Kornél Kovács
This Meatball Boogie party is headlined by the Stockholm DJ and producer who co-founded the acclaimed Studio Barnhus collective with friends Axel Boman and Petter Nordkvist. Recently, Kovács has been gaining increasing buzz with productions that have listeners feeling ecstatic. His debut album, The Bells is set to drop this August, but he will be taking over Elevator beforehand, bringing an infectious DJ style that explores all corners of house and disco.
June 24, 10pm-late, RMB50-80. Elevator.
June 24-25: Common Ground
The first annual Theatertreffen in China kicks off with an original production by the Maxim Gorki Theatre, Berlin. Common Ground explores the cast’s family backgrounds dealing with the Yugoslav War and their shared experiences moving to Berlin from Belgrade and Sarajevo to become actors. The illuminating show explores how the children of war crime victims live alongside the children of the perpetrators.
June 24-25, 7.30pm, RMB50-880. Daning Theatre.
June 24–25: The Doors Tribute Concert
Known for showering Shanghai with his love of Sinatra, Frank Bray shows off his psychedelic side. He’ll be pulling triple duty as producer, director and star of this tribute to the iconic Sixties band. With some of the city’s finest backing him up, Bray will be stepping into the massive shoes of uber-charismatic frontman Jim Morrison. Will he break on through (to the other side)?
June 24-25, 9pm, RMB180–220. The Pearl, see event listing.
June 25: Prettybwoy
A potent force in Japan’s rising grime scene, Prettybwoy follows up his May release on France’s Polaar Record with the Solstice EP released on Shanghai’s SVBKVLT label. His sound has been described as “somewhere in between Mr Mitch’s emotional, weightless grime and Scratcha DVA at his most visceral, spoon-bending best.” This show will also double as the DJ’s first show outside of his home country.
June 25, 10pm-late, RMB50 (with digital copy of EP). The Shelter.
June 25–26: EGG’s One Year Anniversary
Camden Hauge’s much-loved Xiangyang Bei Lu café is already a hipster favorite thanks to their comfort dishes and popular weekly Chef tables. They’re celebrating their first birthday in style with mimosas in the afternoon and a party in the evening.
June 25–26, 2pm, free entry. EGG.
June 27: Game of Thrones Season Finale
While some fans feared that the hugely HBO series might dip in quality now that they don’t have any more George RR Martin books to source, season six of Game of Thrones has been absolutely enchanting. Keep up to date with who’s dying at Westeros by watching new episodes every Monday at Arcade.
June 27, 10pm-late, free entry. Arcade.
June 29-30: John Gabriel Borkman
The Hamburgbased Deutsches Schauspielhaus' contribution to the first annual Theatertreffen in China is an adaptation of famed Norweigian playwright Henrik Ibsen's second-to-last play. John Gabriel Borkman follows the aftereffects of the titular character’s imprisonment for speculating with investor’s money as a bank manager and its effect on his family’s fortunes.
June 29-30, 7.30pm, RMB50-880. Daning Theatre.
June 30–July 2: House Sitting
Long-running Shanghai improv group Zmack takes inspiration from the hit New York/Chicago production Stolen House for this fully-improvised two-act comedic play. Six of the city’s finest improv actors will weave a new tale each night with no script while interacting with a set they’ve never seen before.
June 30-July 2, 8pm, RMB220-250 (with one drink). Finger Moving Space, see event listing.
July 1: The Radio Dept
New Noise are bringing back the Scandinavian shoegaze giants for what promises to be a packed show. The Nordic Award winners have built up a rabid fanbase through mixing indie and dreampop sounds in an electronic haze. Their album Lesser Matters was included in NME’s Album of the Decade.
July 1, 9-11pm, RMB180-240. MAO Livehouse, see event listing.
July 1: MHP
Known as the “son of Shanghai techno,” the electronic musician celebrates his enchanting D-Force debut, Folding Traces, with a national tour. For his hometown show, MHP will be bringing the disc alive with help from trumpeter Xia Bao, keyboardist gaajaahaa and DJ Jackie for a dazzling live set that fuses metropolitan jazz and techhouse dance music.
July 1, 9.30-11.30pm, RMB50-70. On Stage.
July 1–3: Dora the Explorer Live!
The Nickelodeon favorite comes to life in this English language production by Australia’s Life Like Touring. In Search for the City of Lost Toys, Dora must find her lost teddy bear with the help of friends like Diego as well as the audience. The intrepid explorer must use all her skills from counting to languages to complete her mission in this interactive performance, perfect for kids 2-8 years old.
July 1-3, 7.30pm (Fri-Sat) and 3.30pm (Sat-Sun), RMB180–480. Shanghai Children’s Art Theatre.
July 1–3: Jay Chou
The king of Mandopop kicks off his latest world tour by serenading his devoted Shanghai fanbase with three nights of shows.
July 1-3, 7.30-10.30pm, RMB580-2,080. Mercedes-Benz Arena.
July 1–4: Shanghai Young Art Fair
Following its successful launch last year, this art fair for emerging or undiscovered artists returns to take over Shanghai Exhibition Center. More than 200 artists under the age of 45 from all over China will take part.
July 1-4, 2-9pm, 10am-6pm, 10am-2pm, RMB60-120 (RMB198 for four day pass).Shanghai Exhibition Centre.
0 User Comments