What's On in Shanghai: November 2016

That's Shanghai takes a look at the best of the month:

Nov 1: Sun Kil Moon

As frontman of alternative rockers Red House Painters, Mark Kozelek has been racking up critical reviews since the 1990s. The accolades have only grown thanks to his folk project Sun Kil Moon, whose profile was boosted by the universal acclaim of their stunning 2014 disc, Benji. For his China mini-tour, they’ll be joined by former Sonic Youth drummer Steve Shelley.
Nov 1, 8.30pm, RMBTBA. QSW Culture Center.

Nov 2&4: Music By Design

After pairing four Chinese and five Norwegian artists for three days in the studio last year, this cross-cultural collaboration returns with 13 shows in 11 cities across China. For the Shanghai showcase, Danish electropop singer Lydmor (pictured above) and soulful electronic producer share the bill with Norwegians Bror Forsgren of Jaga Jazzist and rising upstarts The Fjords on November 2. Two nights later, award winning Nordic rhymers Arif and Erik Lundin team with Swedish soul singing sensation Cherrie, as well as the critically acclaimed Danish live electronic producer Taragana Pyjarama.
Nov 2, 9.30pm, RMB80. Yuyintang, see event listing.
Nov 4, 10pm, RMB80. Arkham.

Nov 3: Troyboi

There’s no rest for the SHFT crew who follow up their Halloween warehouse rave tour, Freak Out, with its official after-party headlined by the rising East London producer. Thanks to hit collaborations with Diplo and Flosstradamus, Troyboi’s versatile and highly musical approach to trap has torn up clubs across the world and racked up millions of views on YouTube.
Nov 3, 10pm-late, RMB100-200. Arkham, see event listing.

Nov 3-6: Shanghai Improv Festival

Improv teams from India, France, Australia, Singapore, Philippines, China and the USA, including the acclaimed Sand and Search Engine groups from Chicago will converge onto both branches of Shanghai Comedy Club for the third edition of the Zmack and People’s Republic of Comedy organized festival. Fans can get in on the act with numerous workshops taking place during the festival.
Nov 3-6, 9pm (Thurs-Sat), 7pm (Sat-Sun), 4pm (Sun), RMB100-200 (per show) and RMB300-500 (per workshop). Ruijin Cajun and Jalapeño, see event listings.

Nov 4: Doctor Strange

Fresh off the critically acclaimed television adaptation of Luke Cage, the Marvel Universe continues to expand with the first cinematic adaptation of Doctor Strange. Sherlock’s Benedict Cumberbatch stars as top neurosurgeon Stephen Strange whose life is turned upside down following a tragic car accident. As he attempts to rehab, he encounters alternative dimensions and becomes a student to the Ancient One (Tilda Swinton) in the mystical arts. Newly empowered, Doctor Strange must protect the real world from others with his ability to move between alternate dimensions. Academy Award nominated actors Chiwetel Ejiofor and Rachel McAdams co-star.

Nov 4-12: Crested Ibises

Now housed in the recently opened Shanghai International Dance Center, the award-winning Shanghai Dance Theater toasts their new home with their popular production based on the “bird of good fortune.” Once plentiful across China and Japan, crested ibises were driven to near extinction when 20th century urbanization wiped out the blue sky, clean water and tranquil environment they needed to survive. However the discovery of seven wild crested ibises in Shaanxi Province in 1981 has led to joint international scientific efforts to protect and revive the bird’s population. This dance drama tells the story of the bird while celebrating its elegant, yet vulnerable, qualities.
Nov 4-6 and 11-12, 7.30pm, RMB80-280. Shanghai International Dance Center.

Nov 4-20: M Talks

With the Shanghai International Literary Festival a few months away, the organizers are continuing their always illuminating M Talks series. On November 4, Chef Virgilio Martinez hosts a literary showcasing why the Peruvian master was voted the fourth best chef in the world. On November 5, there will be an Australian journalists panel. Down Under will be well represented on November 11 when cooking star Maggie Beer (pictured above) leads a literary lunch. Paul Armstrong-Taylor will provide a fascinating look on shadow banking in China on November 19. The month’s programming caps off on November 20 with a talk from award-winning second generation Chinese-American writer Gish Jen.
Nov 4, 5, 11, 19 and 20, noon (Nov 4&11), 4pm (Nov 5, 19 & 20), RMB75 (with one drink). Glam, see event listings.

Nov 5: SSIS Family Bazaar

Over 2,500 visitors attended this massive community affair last year and organizers are advising to come early to this popular family bazaar. In addition to great food vendors and a marketplace full of artisan goods perfect for holiday gifts, this year marks the debut of the SSIS University Fair – with top universities from across the globe in attendance. As always, there will be plenty of family-friendly games and activities. Proceeds from the event will be donated to two migrant schools to help them set up two computer labs.
Nov 5, 10am-4pm, free entry. SSIS (Minhang).

Nov 5: Bubba’s Chilli Cook-Off

It’s an end of an era, as Bubba’s famed annual Chilli Cook Off returns to its original home, Bubba’s Hongqiao one last time before the building is reclaimed by the military. Fifteen teams will compete for the title of Shanghai’s best chilli. There will be plenty of live music and a ton of drinks with each guest receiving one vote ticket.
Nov 5, 2pm, RMB100. Bubba’s (Hongqiao), see event listing.

Nov 5: Secret Garden

Community Center Shanghai’s annual fundraising gala will take over the Grand Hyatt Shanghai for a night of enchantment and elegance. Proceeds will help the organization to continue offering classes, counseling services, charity events, tours and other quality programming throughout 2017.
Nov 5, 6pm-late, RMB1,000. Grand Hyatt Shanghai, see event listing.

Nov 5: Nine Treasures

Since forming five years ago in Beijing, Nine Treasures have risen to be among the leaders of the Mongolian-metal fusion horde. They’ve headlined the MIDI Festival and completed their second European tour earlier this year. They’ll be rampaging across China to toast their new third album, Spiritual Eyes, which continues their mix of thunderous riffs with gutteral throatsinging and traditional instruments like the morin khuur (horse head fiddle).
Nov 5, 8.30-10.30pm, RMB80-100. QSW Culture Center.

Nov 5: The Pearl’s Third Anniversary

Housed in a landmark building in Hongkou built in 1931, The Pearl has carried on the anything goes creative spirit that made its former incarnation Chinatown such a Shanghai staple. They celebrate their third birthday showcasing their favorite artists performing across a range of fields like fire dancing, burlesque, cabaret and music. Expect a riveting show and come dressed to impressed. Tickets available through That’s.
Nov 5, 9pm-late, RMB100. The Pearl, see event listing.

Nov 5: R3hab

Along with Afrojack and Chuckie, R3hab has become one of the faces of modern Dutch house. He’s won IDMA Awards, collaborated with Hardwell and rocked the world’s biggest festivals.
Nov 5, 10pm-late, RMB150. M2, see event listing.

Nov 5-6: Shanghai Comic Con

The Iron Throne, Firefly's Nathan Fillion, Lord of the Rings' Billy Boyd (aka. Pippin) Prison Break's Robert Knepper and Person of Interet's Amy Acker headline the second edition of this celebration of all things nerd culture. After causing a mass lineups at Beijing Comic Con, HBO has added to their Game of Throne's attractions with guests able to take a photo with Drogon, the show's most prominent dragon. Star comic artists and toy creators will also be on site, with even more exhibitors like The Cartoon Network and HBO showcasing projects like Adventure Time and Westworld (the first five episodes of the star-studded robot cowboy amusement park drama will be screened on site.) For more, check out our preview on Shanghai Comic Con.
Nov 5-6, 9am-7pm, RMB200 (per day). Shanghai Convention & Exhibition Center of International Sourcing, see event listing.

Nov 5-6: Sherlock Holmes and the Hounds of the Baskervilles

The literary world’s most famous sleuth comes to life on stage thanks to the acclaimed UK group, Chapterhouse Theater. In his most famous case, the brilliant Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Dr. Watson must unravel the mystery of a strange, seemingly supernatural beast. Award-winning writer Laura Turner has made some changes to the original, adding more female roles to the story. For more, check out our feature on the show.
Nov 5-6, 7.30pm (with 2.30pm show on Sat), RMB80-380. Lyceum Theater, see event listing.

Nov 5-Dec 11: ACT Shanghai International Theatre Festival

This massive theatre festival celebrates its 12th edition with award winning shows from across the world like Polish mime maestro’s Trygve Wakenshaw’s Kraken (Nov 13-15, pictured above) and Hong Kong’s groundbreaking physical theatre show Titus Andronicus 2.0 (Nov 18-20).
Nov 5-Dec 11, various times, RMB120-280 per show. Shanghai Dramatic Arts Centre.

Nov 6: Michael Rother

The Krautrock innovator founded the genre-defining group Neu! and had a short stint in Kraftwerk. His influence is especially pronounced in China where young indie standouts like Future Orients (see below) cite them as a major influence. He’ll dip into Neu! classics and tracks from other projects like Harmonia in this Noisey x Vice organized show.
Nov 6, 8.30pm, RMB150. MAO Livehouse, see event listing.

Nov 7-8: Shen Wei Dance Company

Acclaimed as “one of the great artists of our time,” Hunan-born choreographer Shen Wei stunned the world with his calligraphy dance and choreography at the 2008 Beijing Olympics opening ceremony. Based in New York, he's won distinguished prizes at home and abroad. More popular internationally, the Shen Wei Dance Company will bring his landmark works Near the Terrace and Maps on a tour of China showcasing two vastly different styles of dance he pioneered.
Nov 7-8, 7.15pm, RMB80-880. Shanghai Grand Theater.

Nov 8: Akon

It may be eight years and counting since his last album release, there's no denying Akon’s influence on modern pop thanks to more than 35 Billboard Hot 100 songs including anthems like ‘Smack That.’ He takes over Mercedes-Benz Arena on November 8 for his first Shanghai show in two years and first since his guest appearance on the hit reality show, I Am A Singer. For more, check out our 2014 interview with Akon.
Nov 8, 8pm, RMB380-1,680. Mercedes-Benz Arena, see event listing.

Nov 9: Ian Shaw

JZ Club is taking full advantage of its new larger space at Found 158 with this prime booking of the two-time BBC Jazz Award winner for Best Jazz Vocalist. A fixture in London’s jazz and cabaret scene, Shaw has been praised as a pianist, songwriter, comedian and humanitarian.
Nov 9, 9-11.30pm, RMB150. JZ Club.

Nov 9: Knife Party

The Australian duo started as a side project from members of live drum and bass band, Pendulum, to create evil electronic dance music. They’ve succeeded in their mission, thanks to Beatport chart-topping discs like Haunted House. They’ve worked with heavy hitters like Swedish House Mafia, Steve Aoki and Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello, who guested on their recent single, ‘Battle Sirens.’
Nov 9, 10.30pm-late, RMB150. MYST, see event listing.

Nov 9-13: West Bund Art + Design Fair 2016

The budding cultural corridor of the West Bund celebrates the third edition of this international art fair, welcoming 31 leading contemporary galleries from around the world. Highlights include the first large scale exhibition from pop art master Alexander Katz (pictured) and the opening of ShanghART’s West Bund gallery.
Nov 9-13, noon-6pm (Wed-Fri), 10am-6pm (Sat-Sun), RMB60-80. West Bund Art & Design Center.

Nov 10: Moritz Van Oswald

For their first anniversary, Say Yes celebrates with the German multi-instrumentalist who became one of the most influential producers in 1990s dub techno. He’s still going strong, collaborating on dream projects like his work with Fela Kuti drummer Tony Allen and with techno original Juan Atkins.
Nov 10, 10pm-late, RMBTBA. The Shelter.

Nov 10-13: Yummy Planet Festival

Despite the controversy, Shanghai’s first Michelin Guide has only cemented the city as an emerging food mecca. This massive food festival pairs celebrity chefs like André Chiang, who was the former head chef of three-Michelin star restaurant Le Jardin des Sens in France and whose Restaurant André is considered one of Singapore’s best, with homegrown favorites like Alan Wong’s, Wawamama, Liquid Laundry, The MEAT and much more. Kids under 1.3-meters-high can enter for free (limited one per ticket).
Nov 10-13, 10am, RMB190-320 (Thurs) RMB210-380 (Fri-Sun). Shanghai Mart, see event listing.

Nov 10-13: Harlequino

Best known for his roles in The Shawshank Redemption and Mystic River, Academy Award winner Tim Robbins returns to Shanghai with his acclaimed theater group, The Actor’s Gang. He follows his rousing 2014 adaptation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream with an original play that he scripted that celebrates the 16th century art of Commedia dell’Arte, which served as the satirical voice for the poor and powerless of that time. For more, check out our 2014 interview with Tim Robbins.
Nov 10-13, 7.15pm (with 2pm weekend matinees), RMB120-680. Daguan Theater, Shanghai Himalayas Art Center, see event listing.

Nov 11: Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk

Academy Award winner Ang Lee directs this British-American-Chinese produced adaptation of Ben Fountain’s celebrated debut novel. Taking place in a single day, newcomer Joe Alywnn stars as the titular Lynn – a 19-year-old army specialist who barely survives a tense battle in Iraq that receives broad news coverage. On his way to being feted during the halftime show of the Dallas Cowboys’ Thanksgiving game, Lynn struggles with his tragic memories and the raucous welcome he receives when he returns home. Kristen Stewart (Twilight), Chris Tucker (Rush Hour), Vin Diesel (The Fast and the Furious) and Steve Martin co-stars.

Nov 11-13:Shanghai International Kids Fashion Week

China’s first and most high profile kids fashion event returns for its fifth edition. Designers will attempt to redefine the future of kids fashion while celebrating the leading brands in America, Europe, China and across the world will show off their latest seasonal collections and custom series. While the show is invitation only, we are giving away passes. For your chance to win, e-mail rsvp@urbanatomy.com with your name, contact number and the number of kids attending. More info can be found at sikfw.com.

Nov 11-20: Reservoir Dogs

While they may have changed their name from Urban Aphrodite to DreamWeaver, the popular theater company are up to their old tricks, bringing another film classic to the stage. After last year's adaptations of The Princess Bride and Fast Times at Ridgemont High, they kick off their new season by bringing to life Quentin Tarantino's iconic first film success. Stars Mark Edwards, Greg Carew, Ryan Larsen, Mike Griffin, Eric Paci and Liam McDermott.
Nov 11-13 and 17-20, 8pm showtime, RMB180-200. The Market.

Nov 12: Pac-12 China Game

Academic powerhouses Harvard and Stanford kick off their college basketball regular seasons in the second edition of the Pac 12 China game, presented by Alibaba. Last year's edition marked the first time an American sport held a regular season game on Chinese mainland and drew in over 8,000 fans. Aired live on ESPN, this game will feature the debut of Harvard's highly touted freshman point guard Bryce Aiken.
Nov 12, noon, RMB80-980. Mercedes-Benz Arena, see event listing.

Nov 12: Electric Zoo: Countdown Shanghai

The New York mega electronic music festival drew in a record-breaking 83,000 people to this year’s edition. They’re bringing their famed giant octopus stage, animal themed costume performers and an impressive lineup of top DJs like Dada Life, Sander Van Doorn and Hucci when it makes it holds its first China edition. Tickets available through That's here.
Nov 12, 1.30pm-late, RMB299-499. Expo Park, see event listing.

Nov 12: Chi Fan for Charity

With support from The Good Agency and That’s Shanghai, Chi Fan will host over 500 people at dozens restaurants around the city to raise money for this year’s beneficiaries, Shanghai Young Bakers and Educating Girls of Rural China. Entering its sixth year, Chi Fan for Charity is the largest F&B-related charity event in Asia, which is also hosted in Beijing and Hong Kong. Participating restaurants donate a table for 10 people with a three-course meal and beverage pairings. To date the event has raised over RMB4.7 million for over 20 charities. For more, check out our Chi Fan for Charity series or vist www.chifanforcharity.org. 

Nov 12: Future Orients

Formed just three years ago, the young Beijing quartet has captivated their hometown's music scene thanks to an icy sound that channels Foals, Neu! and other acclaimed indie acts. They're embarking on their first national tour to support their fine debut album, Eat or Die, which was released by Maybe Mars and produced by P.K. 14 frontman Yang Haisong.
Nov 12, 9-11.30pm, RMB60-80. Yuyintang.

Nov 12: Gqom Oh!

The leading purveyors of gqom – a new style of apocalyptic bass music emerging from Durban, South Africa – bring their inaugural Asia tour to The Shelter. Derived from an onomatopoeic Zulu word signifying a drum, gqom is “riot music” according to Gqom Oh! label boss, Nan Kolè. He’ll be spinning a set of the raw form of South African house along with producer and self-proclaimed gqom king, DJ Lag. Recommended for fans of UK bass and Chicago footwork.
Nov 12, 10pm-late, RMB80. The Shelter.

Nov 12: Till von Sein

Shiny Shoes and Holly Sh*t team up to present the house favorite known for his euphoric, heart-racing sets that incorporates elements of soul and techno. The last time he came to town, Till Von Sein tore down Lola and he’ll be making his Elevator debut. Miki Discosnot, Charp and Thoma Cher support.
Nov 12, 10pm-late, RMBTBA. Elevator.

Nov 12-13: ART021

Named after Shanghai’s area code, this massive contemporary art fair features a who’s who of international galleries. Highlights include Kaw’s memorable Companion (pictured) but there will be plenty of other stellar exhibitions and events for art lovers to enjoy. The festival is part of the Shanghai International Arts Festival.
Nov 12-13, 11am-6pm, RMBTBA. Shanghai Exhibition Center.

Nov 12-Mar 12: Shanghai Biennale

Power Station of Art hosts the 11th edition of this massive contemporary art fair that will emphasize “the possibilities of South-South dialogue within the current scenario of a highly connected world.” The acclaimed Dehli-based Raqs Media Collective (pictured above) curates presenting a destination for many different kinds of exploration and investigation that will also serve as a launching pad for new visions, ideas and artists.
Nov 12-Mar 12, 9am-5pm, RMB20. Power Station of Art.

Nov 15-16: Paul Taylor Dance Company

As one of the first touring companies of American modern dance, the Paul Taylor Dance Company has cast a wide influence on the artform. For the Shanghai stop of their China tour, they’ll perform selections from 1980’s Sacre Du Printemps, The Rehearsal, 2002’s Promethean Fire and 2008’s Beloved Renegade.
Nov 15-16, 7.15pm, RMB280-880. Shanghai Oriental Art Center.

Nov 16-Dec 4: Blue Man Group

25 years ago, three newly graduated friends wanted to somehow parlay their interest in design, science, comedy, drumming and music into careers. Shockingly, they’ve succeeded with this hit show that has infiltrated the world’s biggest stages and Arrested Development. They’re making their Chinese mainland debut with a huge tour that stops off at Shanghai Culture Square for an extended run.
Nov 16-Dec 4, 7.15pm (Tues-Sun) and 2pm (Sat-Sun), RMB158-688. Shanghai Culture Square.

Nov 18: SMZB

The groundbreaking Wuhan punkfathers are hitting the road to celebrate their 20th anniversary and their fiery new album. Released on Maybe Mars, The Chinese Are Coming mixes the group’s customary brew of socially conscious lyrics and Celtic punk.
Nov 18, 8.30-11.30pm, RMB80-100. Yuyintang.

Nov 18: Armin van Burren

Voted as the world’s best DJ for a record-setting five times straight by DJ Magazine’s Top 100 DJ list, the Grammy-nominated Dutch DJ and producer is a trance legend. Revered for his euphoric DJ sets, van Buuren indulges his artistic side by bringing his Armin Only Embrace tour, which focuses on his last studio album, the genre smashing Embrace.
Nov 18, 8pm, RMB280-680. Shanghai Oriental Sports Center, see event listing.

Nov 18: Louie Vega

With a jazz saxophonist as a father and an uncle who sang in the salsa group Fania All-Stars, Louie Vegas has added his own immense chapter to the family’s musical heritage. A DJ at AGE 13, Vega held residencies at New York’s hottest spots before teaming up with Kenny “Dope” Gonzalez in the early 1990s to form the legendary remix team, Masters at Work.
Nov 18, 10pm-late, RMB100. UNICO Shanghai, see event listing.

Nov 18: Solomun

The Hamburg-raised DJ is a three-time DJ Awards winner for Best Producer and Best Deep House DJ. His remix of Noir & Hayze’s ‘Around’ was dubbed remix of the year by Resident Advisor and he held down two Ibiza residencies this summer thanks to a sound that’s been described as “house music, but with deep, ultra funky basslines, euphoric melodies and emotionally charged vocals.”
Nov 18, 10.30pm-late, RMB180. Fusion, see event listing.

Nov 18-19: Vlad Caamaño

Despite his Russian sounding first name, Caamaño has become one of New York’s hottest stand-ups, mining laughs from his upbringing in an immigrant Dominican family making it work in the Big Apple. Mixing urban grit and intellect, Caamaño was named on Variety’s Top 10 Comics to Watch list this year, and NBC recently ordered a pilot for a sitcom based on Caamaño’s real-life family dynamic.
Nov 18-19, 8.30pm (Fri) 8pm and 10pm (Sat), RMB170-200. Kung Fu Komedy Club.

Nov 19-20: FEAST Festival

The second installment of Social Supply’s food festival brings 10 of the city’s hottest chefs together for a two-day culinary binge at the rooftop of Xintiandi’s The Place, complete with three mixologists, DJs and live music.
Nov 19-20, noon-9pm, RMB50-80 (RMB90 for both days). The Place Rooftop.

Nov 22-25: Masters of Food and Wine

Gourmands and vinophiles descend on the Park Hyatt Shanghai for the sixth annual edition celebrating the finest in French food and wine. Michelin-starred restaurant chefs George Blanc, César Troisgros, Michel Rostang and Jean-Pierre Vigato will prepare gala dinners. Celebrity masters in fields ranging from desserts to floral arrangements will share their insight, into their field through public classes held throughout the day from Nov 23-25 from 10am-6pm.
Nov 22-25, 7-10pm (gala dinner), RMBTBA. Park Hyatt Shanghai.

Nov 23: Birdy Nam Nam

Pioneers of turntablism in France, the DMC World DJ champions are lauded for using the form to create inventive beats. After a four-year break, they’re back as a trio with a new high octane electro sound in place of the smokey abstract hip hop they were previously known for. As their new album states, Dance or Die. Sun Glitters opens prior to his headlining show at The Shelter on November 24.
Nov 23, 9pm, RMB180-240. MAO Livehouse, see event listing.

Nov 23-26: Matt & Ben

An experienced producer with Urban Aphordite, Brandi Burtts (The 39 Steps, The Last Five Years) has started a new company, The Theater Underground. In their debut show, Awesta Zarif (Fight Club) and Sarah Wun star as Matt Damon and Ben Affleck – two struggling actors plugging away at a screen adaptation of Catcher in the Rye whose lives change for the better when the screenplay of Good Will Hunting mysteriously drops from their ceiling. Hijinks ensue. The 2002 Fringe Festival Audience award winner was co-written by Mindy Kaling (The Office, The Mindy Project) shortly after she graduated from Dartmouth.
Nov 23-26, 7pm (Wed-Thurs and Sun), 8pm (Fri-Sat), RMB150-180. The Market, theshanghaiunderground@gmail.com.

Nov 24: Thanksgiving

It’s turkey time. Stuffing season. Pie-o’clock. Americans and non-Americans alike can embrace this holiday where the only requirement is a strong appetite and an ability to fight off the tryptophan long enough to get to dessert. There are plenty of restaurants across Shanghai hosting massive Thanksgiving feasts and others offering hampers for those who want to celebrate at home. Stay tuned to our website for our full Thanksgiving in Shanghai guide.

Nov 24: José González

Split Works and Shanghai Symphony Orchestra (SSO) Hall kick off the third season of their perpetually sold out Contemporale series with the award-winning Swedish soulful troubadour. Known for his sparse mix of classical guitar and his soft voice, González has scored hits like ‘Crosses’ and his cover of The Knife’s ‘Heartbeats.’ He’s collaborated with Zero, been remixed by Tiësto and won last year’s Impala’s Independent Album of the Year for his third album, Vestiges & Claws. For more, check out our feature on the Contemporale series.
Nov 24, 7.45-9.30pm, RMB80-180. Shanghai Symphony Orchestra Hall.

Nov 24-25: Zai Live

Live Nation presents the second edition of this concert series dedicated to celebrating diversity in music. On November 24, Japanese indie-pop giants Sekai No Owari returns after headlining the Concrete + Grass Festival. They’ll be presenting their fantasy-like show, End of the World. The next night, singer-songwriter Yen J makes the trip up from Taiwan to showcase his skilled mix of jazz and pop that have made him a favorite in the Mandopop world.
Nov 24-25, 8pm, RMB180-680. Yunfeng Theatre, see event listings.

Nov 24-26: Punchline Comedy

What happens when an Englishman (Barry Castognola), an Irishman (Andrew Stanley, pictured above) and a Scotmsman (Mark Nelson) try to topple each other for laughs? Hilarity in the last Punchline Comedy tour that brings top comics from the UK on Asian tours. Tickets available through That's here.
Nov 24, 8.30pm, RMB290. The Exchange, see event listing.
Nov 25, 8pm, RMB290. The Camel, see event listing.
Nov 26, 8pm, RMB290. Blossoms, 2/F, Kerry Hotel Pudong, see event listing.

Nov 25: Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them

Harry Potter fans in China, rejoice! This prequel and first in a spinoff franchise of five taking place at various times in J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World has scored a rare same day global film release. Eddie Redmayne (Les Miserables) stars as the eccentric Newt Scamander who has arrived in 1926 New York just as dark wizarding forces have emerged.

Nov 25: Rolling Bowling

After spending part of the year touring Europe, the Beijing rockabilly trio are bringing some old school rock and roll chaos across China to celebrate their Modern Sky debut, Love, Don’t Have Tomorrow. The Psyders and DJ B.O. support. For more, check out our 2015 interview with Rolling Bowling.
Nov 25, 9-11.30pm, RMB80-100. Yuyintang, see event listing.

Nov 25: Elijah & Skilliam

The grime masterminds held a weekly residency at London’s pioneering radion station Rinse FM for six years and founded the always hip Butterz label that has produced Royal-T and Flava D. They’re back to rock Shanghai with support from Cavia, Esa, Jay K and MC Jado.
Nov 25, 10pm-late, RMB70-100. Arkham.

Nov 25 -26: Sub-culture Shanghai 9-Year Anniversary

While we’re still reeling from the news that The Shelter will close after New Year’s Eve, the show must go on. Formed the same month that the club opened, Sub-Culture celebrates its anniversary with two nights of parties. On Friday, the Rick Owens approved producer Jlin shows off her bold new sound captured on her acclaimed 2015 debut album, Dark Energy. Choreographer and performance artist Avril Ungar, who founded Bangalore’s The Storm Factory, will perform live during Jlin’s set. On Saturday, it’s Hyperdub’s Ikonika (pictured) returning to unleash her melodic twisted take on UK underground dance music. Rising Beijing producer Shackup supports.
Nov 25-26, 10pm-late, RMB80 (per show). The Shelter.

Nov 26: Split Works 10th Anniversary Party

Celebrating a decade of bringing top acts from Kurt Vile to A$AP Ferg to China, Split Works are throwing a warehouse party at a secret location with a killer trio of bands. The godfathers of mainland art-punk P.K. 14 will play their first Shanghai show of the year. They’re joined by rising UK post-punk group Eagulls and raucous hometown heroes, Dirty Fingers. For more, check out our 2015 feature on P.K. 14.
Nov 26, 6pm, RMB150. Location will be revealed to those who purchase pre-sale tickets.

Nov 26: Elenore

The Beijing trio mixed Britpop pomp with hazy classic rock to great effect on last year’s, King of the Circus. The Tree Records affiliated group bring their epic sound to Yuyintng for a rare Shanghai appearance.
Nov 26, 8.30-11.30pm, RMB80-100. Yuyintang.

Nov 26: J.Rocc

Le Baron welcomes the turntablism original who co-founded the seminal Beat Junkies crew. Despite his legend status, J.Rocc remains a vital force in instrumental hip-hop, thanks to his production work for Stones Throw, his DJ work for Mos Def and Talib Kweli’s duo Black Star and his role on Dr. Dre’s Beats 1 radio show, The Pharmacy.
Nov 26, 9pm-late, RMBTBA. Le Baron.

Nov 26-27: French Christmas Market

The Pearl hosts the third edition of this weekend holiday market featuring French Christmas specialties like traditional hot wine, foie gras and waffles. Around 50 vendors will be peddling unique or homemade products and there will be live music and performances throughout the day. Kids will also get a chance to meet le Père Noël (aka. Santa).
Nov 26-27, noon-10pm (Sat) noon-8pm (Sun), RMB20 (free entry for kids under 5). The Pearl, see event listing.

Nov 26-Feb 27: Beyond Rubik’s Cube

Created by the Liberty Science Museum, Google and the cube’s Hungarian inventor, Ernõ Rubik, this exhibition celebrates the world’s most popular puzzle. During its world tour, Beyond Rubik’s Cube has delighted guests with interactive physical and digital challenges. Other highlights include a giant Rubik’s Cube the size of a car and the world’s most expensive toy, a jewel-encrusted Rubik’s Cube.
Nov 25-Feb 27, 10.30am-9.30pm, RMB70 (weekday), RMB100 (weekends). Shanghai Global Harbor Museum.

Nov 27: Charity Santa Run

Spread some festive cheer as the Pudong Shangri-La, East Shanghai holds its second Charity Santa Run with proceeds going to Fudan University Children’s Hospital to aid children suffering from leukemia. Runners can choose between a 5K and a 10K with a complimentary T-shirt, duffel bag, festive cookies, Santa hat, breakfast and a hotel gourmand passport valued at RMB1,000 all included.
Nov 27, 7.30am, RMB188 (RMB128 for kids between 8-16). Pudong Shangri-La, East Shanghai, see event listing.

Nov 27: Beardageddon 2016

Move over Movember. Throughout the month, over 20 Shanghai beards of note are raising money for a charity aiding displaced persons in the city by sacrificing their stubble. It all comes off live at this official showdown celebration that also includes live music, pop-up food vendors and raffle giveaways with sweet prizes like concert tickets and a Peyton Manning signed football up for grabs.
Nov 27, 2-8pm, RMB50. Inferno.

Nov 27: Shanghai Bili Bili vs Sichuan Blue Whales

The hometown Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) team may be ridiculed online for their new name but excitement at Yuanshen Stadium should be high when they welcome the defending league champions. It’s part of a packed opening month for the season that also includes matches against perennial contenders Guangdong (Nov 11) and Xinjiang (Nov 30). While Shanghai may have missed the playoffs the past couple years, the team is hoping that former Sacramento King Jimmer Fredette finds the scoring touch that made him a sensation in America when he led all college players in scoring with 28.9 points per game.
Nov 27, 7.35pm, RMB50-300. Yuanshen Stadium.

Nov 27: Sisu

Fronted by Dum Dum Girls drummer Sandra Vu, the LA indie group is known for mixing psychedelic pop with electronic elements. They bring their inaugural China tour to Arkham.
Nov 27, 9pm-late, RMB130-160. Arkham.

Nov 30-Dec 19: Magic Xmas Market

Get a head start on holidays season and stock up on uniquely designed gifts as Shanghai Centre welcomes a variety of vendors from across the city. Adding to the festive spirit are holiday treats and decorations.
Nov 30-Dec 19, 10.30am-7pm (Mon-Thurs), 10.30am-8pm (Fri-Sun), free entry. Shanghai Centre.

Dec 1: Red Ribbon Gala Dinner

ShanghaiPRIDE and Q-Events have teamed up for this annual gala dinner to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS in China. Held in honor of World AIDS Day, proceeds will benefit the Shanghai Qingai Health Center’s efforts to expand their safe sex education.
Dec 1, 7.30pm, RMB900 per seat. Andaz Xintiandi, see event listing.

Dec 1: Toe

The Japanese post-rock quartet returns to MAO Livehouse after stunning in their Shanghai debut two years ago. On this New Noise organized tour, they’ll be presenting their new critically acclaimed album, Hear You, which continues their mix of intense instrumentals with beautiful harmonies and melodic guitar riffs. For more, check out our 2014 interview with Toe.
Dec 1, 8.30-10pm, RMB220-260. MAO Livehouse, see event listing.

Dec 1-4: Christkindlmarkt

BLN Restaurants & Catering present the 10th edition of their popular German style Christmas market at the Paulaner Bräuhaus Expo location. Seventy seasonally decorated wooden huts will be set up across the venue’s spacious garden serving up sizzling sausages, hot spiced Glühwein and traditional desserts like Belgian waffles, sugard roasted almonds and Magenbrot (German style gingerbread). Vendors will be selling seasonal items like Christmas trees, wreaths and ornaments, as well as handicrafts that make for unique gifts.
Dec 1-4, 3-10pm (Thurs-Fri), 11am-10pm (Sat) and 11am-9pm (Sun), RMB30 (free entry for kids under 10). Paulaner (Expo).