That's Shanghai takes a look at the best of the month:
Aug 30-31: Simple Plan
The Canadian pop punk favorites return to Shanghai after two past sold-out trips. They’ll be celebrating their new album Taking One for the Team, which adds new musical flourishes, like the reggae styled single ‘Singing in the Rain’ to their anthemic sound that has produced hits like ‘Addicted’ and ‘I’d Do Anything.’
Aug 30-31, 8pm, RMB488, The Mixing Room, see event listing.
Sep 1-2: CHat Shanghai
China Channel and WalktheChat present the country’s largest WeChat conference for international audiences. The two-day conference is dedicated to all things WeChat featuring a variety of speakers raging from entrepreneurs to video artists, marketing experts to NGOs, united in their innovative use of the platform. Limited space is available for morning workshops running from 10am-noon with Sep 1 after party details to be released soon. For more, check out our Women of WeChat series.
Sep 1-2, 2-6.30pm, RMB388-888. The Place, see event listing.
Sep 1-4: Squash Stars on the Bund
Once again, The Peninsula Shanghai hosts arguably the world’s most beautiful squash tournament. The world’s best players including Mohamed Elshorbagy and Laura Massaro will battle in a glass court that’s been constructed on the hotel’s 11th floor terrace that overlooks the Bund. Tickets available at The Peninsula Shanghai’s front desk.
Sep 1-4, 2-7.30pm, RMB298. The Peninsula Shanghai.
Sep 1-5: MTA Shanghai
There’s a big electronic music festival going down at Beijing’s Sky Desert, and a trio of its international headliners will travel south to rock MAO Livehouse. On Sep 1, chart-topping electronic singer-songwriter-rapper Example is bringing his full band down. The next night, rising Norwegian producer Alan Walker will be joined by a special guest spinning melodic electro-house. Veteran live drum and bass band Rudimental will be joined by trumpeter Mark Crown for an extra soulful show on Sep 5. Three-day passes available for RMB500. For more, check out our MTA Shanghai preview.
Sep 1, 2 and 5, 9-10.30pm, RMB200-280 (Thurs), RMB280-380 (Fri) and RMB180-260 (Mon). MAO Livehouse. see event listings.
Sep 2: Star Trek Beyond
Since JJ Abrams successfully rebooted the franchise seven years ago, Star Trek has resumed ‘boldly going where no man has gone before’ Justin Lin (Fast 5) takes over directorial duties while Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto return for a third time to resume their roles as Captain Kirk and Commander Spock. They are joined by cast regulars Zoe Saldana, Simon Pegg, John Cho and Karl Urban, while Idris Elba (The Wire) stars as the film’s baddy – the powerful mutated alien creature Krall. The film has already been one of the summer’s biggest successes, grossing over USD195 million worldwide.
Sep 2: Southpaw
Jake Gyllenhaal has become one of Hollywood’s most intriguing leading men, thanks to memorable performances in critic’s favorites like Nightcrawler. For Southpaw, he goes full DeNiro, packing on an impressive physique to transform into Billy Hope – an undefeated boxer who spirals out of control following a serious eye injury. Rachel McAdams co-stars as his long-suffering wife while The Strain’s Miguel Gomez stars as the cocky young boxer Miguel ‘Magic’ Escobar who goads Hope into one more fight. Released last year after premiering at the Shanghai International Film Festival, Southpaw has been praised for Gyllenhaal and co-star Forrest Whitaker's performances.
Sep 2: TAO Dance Theater
Already acclaimed dancers, Tao Ye and Duan Ni formed this ambitious contemporary dance group eight years ago in the suburbs of Beijing. With a style that critics dub as avant-garde, but they actually describe as ‘old school,’ their movement-focused style has won them wide acclaim internationally with their homeland beginning to catch up to their charms. For more, check out our feature on Tao Dance Theater.
Sep 2, 7.15pm, RMB80-480. Shanghai Culture Square.
Sep 2: Forsaken Autumn
The standout Shanghai shoegaze act finally officially celebrate the release of their excellent debut EP, Whenere. This hometown show kicks off a five-city national tour and they’ll be joined by other stalwarts of the scene, Dahlia Rosea and the Maybe Mars-signed Dream Can.
Sep 2, 9-11.30pm, RMB60-80. Yuyintang.
Sep 2-3: Compagnie Marie Chouinard
Renowned Montreal artist’s legacy lives on with the dance company she founded in 1990, devoted to exploring “the poetry of the body.”
Sep 2-3, 7.30pm, RMB80-680. Daning Theatre, see event listing.
Sep 2-3: House of Vans
Huge news for hip hop fans as Native Tongues originals De La Soul is the special guest for this year’s House of Vans stop in Shanghai. It’s fantastic timing, as the legendary trio just released their first album in 11 years - the Kickstarter funded And The Anonymous Nobody… which has been racking up rve reviews. They’re headlining the September 3 show with Fari Faux and Mainland standouts, Soulspeak and J-Fever. On September 2, Brits Moose Blood headlines. Tickets are free but available only at Vans Stores at iAPM or Raffles (for Friday’s show) and to Fly Vans or Zhongshan Park store (for September’s show). It’s first come first serve and available only until 10am on September 1.
Sep 2-3, 8pm, free entry (with invitation). Wharf 1846.
Sep 3: Nu Mark
As a member of Jurassic 5, this Los Angeles DJ has amassed a major following in the underground hip hop community for his innovative cuts and live showmanship. He’s remixed Nas and has stretched out to experiment with other genres as a solo artist, including his famed live performances using only children’s music toys. For more, check out our Listening Booth column with Nu-Mark where he reviews three Mainland tracks.
Sep 3, 10pm-late, RMB100. The Shelter.
Sep 3 & 10: Beats + Bites
Social Supply presents this dinner series celebrating the intersection of food and music. On September 3, Sam Norris and his new Japanese partner Jun Nishio team up with DJ Taxi for a mix of Japanese comfort classics and J-pop. The next week, Jenny Gao and Frau pair off for a night of Sichuan soul food with classic soul tunes. Seats are limited to 40 and tickets include one paired cocktail for Union Trading Company’s Yao Lu’s new menu for Bonobo.
Sep 3 and 10, 8pm, RMB288. Bonobo.
Sep 3, 10 & 17: Historic Shanghai
Discover some of the city’s secrets that are hidden in plain sight with Historic Shanghai’s experts-led walking tours. On Sep 3, they’ll be exploring the lanes behind the Art Deco apartments and tycoon’s mansions of the former Avenue Joffre (now Huaihai Lu). On September 10, Shelly Bryant will provide a live version of the insight that she covered in Classical Gardens of Shanghai. Renowned author Lynn Pan joins Karolina Pawlik for September 17’s Cupid in Shanghai talk that features illustrations from the 1920s depicting modern love and a fascinating look at the evolution of the Chinese word for love. For more, check out our book review of Lynn Pan's When True Love Came to China.
Sep 3, 10 and 17, 2pm, RMB200-250 (Sep 3 and 10), RMB100-150 (Sep 17). Meeting location revealed after RSVPing with info@historic-shanghai.com.
Sep 3, 16, 18 & 24: M Talks
Organizers of the annual Shanghai International Literary Festivals, M on the Bund are holding four afternoon talks featuring authors and experts this month. On September 3, Age of Discovery author Chris Kutarna places recent developments like Brexit within the context of the first renaissance. On September 16, internationally renowned Chinese food expert Fuchsia Dunlop delves into the Jiangnan cuisine she celebrates in Land of Fish and Rice. On September 18, renowned author Xu Xi reads from her new novel, That Man In Our Lives. Chris Ruffle (pictured above) details his misadventures building a vineyard in the middle of the eastern China countryside on August 24. For more, check out our book review on Chris Ruffle's A Decent Bottle of Wine in China.
Sep 3, 18 and 24 4pm, RMB75 (with one drink). Glam, see event listings.
Sep 16, noon, RMB295 (with lunch and drink). Glam, see event listings.
Sep 4: SCAA Adoption Day
Get a cuddly addition to your home as Second Chance Animal Aid holds their monthly adoption day. All foster animals are healthy, happy and looking for a loving forever home.
Sep 4, 1-3pm, free entry. Shanghai Brewery, see event listing.
Sep 4: Video Games Live
This immersive concert brings together top orchestras and choirs performing live renditions of music from the most popular video games of all time. Praised as an experience enjoyed by the entire family, it mixes grand symphonic orchestra scores mixed with scenes from the games themselves.
Sep 4, 7.30pm, RMB100-880. Shanghai Grand Stage, see event listing.
Sep 7: Dennis Rodman’s Big Bang in Pyongyang
The bad boy NBA Hall of Famer’s curious friendship with Kim Jong-Un, the supreme leader of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) is the subject of Colin Offland’s film. The documentarian tagged along with Rodman and a delegation of former NBA players as they stage an exhibition game in Pyongyang on the Supreme Leader’s birthday. Koryo Tour’s General Manger Simon Cockerell will answer questions about the historic game that he attended, as well as his experience pioneering North Korean tourism. For more, check out our feature on a rare look at everyday life in North Korea.
Sep 7, 7.30pm, RMB50 (with one drink). The Apartment, see event listing.
Sep 7: Barong Label Night
Founded two years ago by the Diplo approved genre-defying Dutch group Yellow Claw, the Barong Family has been on a signing spree, including inking a deal with Shanghai producer Chace. This label showcase brings both acts to Arkham along with other affiliated artists Cesqeaux, Moksi and Mike Cervello, with an assist from SHFT approved hometown heroes Dexter King and Tsunano.
Sep 7, 10pm-late, RMB160-260. Arkham, see event listing.
Sep 8 & 10: Pelléas et Mélisande
Shanghai Grand Theatre opens its 2016-17 season with the world premiere of its adapatation of Claude Débussy’s only opera. In partnership with the Xinchan Centre for Theatre Arts, this show will feature contributions from award-winning director Yi Liming (Coriolanus) and Maestro Muhai Tang, arguably the most important conductor in China’s music history.
Sep 8 and 10, 7.15pm, RMB180-680. Shanghai Grand Theatre.
Sep 8-10: Stephen K. Amos
Praised as “the embodiment of charisma,” Stephen K. Amos has conquered the English stand-up world and regularly tours around the world. Also a gifted actor who has starred in numerous films and TV programs, the award-winning stand-up will be charming China as part of Punchline Comedy organized tour. For more, check out our interview with Stephen K. Amos.
Sep 8, 8.30pm, RMB290. The Camel Bar (Puxi), see event listing.
Sep 9, 8pm, RMB290. The Exchange, see event listing.
Sep 10, 8.30pm, RMB290. Kerry Hotel Pudong, see event listing.
Sep 8-11: Photofairs | Shanghai
Now entering its third year, the formerly named Photo Shanghai has established itself as Asia’s largest art festival solely dedicated to photography. Last year, 26,000 people attended and organizers expect this year’s to be even bigger with 52 galleries participating showcasing iconic photographers like Robert Mapplethorpe and Wim Wenders, with many speaking at public workshops like Denis Darzacq and Michael Wolf. Stay tuned for our Photofairs | Shanghai preview.
Sep 8-11, 6-9pm (Thurs), 11am-6pm (Fri-Sun), RMB400 (Thurs), RMB100 (Fri-Sun) or RMB600 for Vip tickets. Shanghai Exhibition Center.
Sep 8-11: Teatro Alla Scala Ballet
With a history that dates back to the Renaissance courtyards of Italy, Teatro Alla Scala Ballet remains one of the world’s most renowned companies. Their reputation is only growing thanks to increased world tours. For their Shanghai shows, they will perform Giselle from Sep 8-10 and two Sunday shows of Cello Suites (Bach).
Sep 8-11, 7.15pm (2pm on Sun). Shanghai Oriental Art Center, see event listings.
Sep 9: Glam Anniversary
The Bund lounge celebrates its first birthday in truly glamorous style with a live band, DJ sets and special packages for drinks (RMB138) and dinner (RMB388). There will be a special birthday drink menu and an opportunity to truly flaunt your style on the Bund. Dress code: think peacock and strut your stuff. For more, check out our bar review of Glam.
Sep 9, 7pm, RMB138-150 (RMB388-400 for dinner package). Glam, see event listing.
Sep 9: Kenny G
The Grammy Award-winning saxophonist is the best-selling instrumental musician in the modern era, with over 75 million records sold worldwide. His last disc was inspired by the bossa nova sounds of Brazil, while he enjoys continual ubiquity in China with his track ‘Going Home’ remaining the unofficial closing time signal for malls, schools and train stations.
Sep 9, 7.30pm, RMB180-980. Shanghai Oriental Art Center, see event listing.
Sep 9: TC
The Bristol-based DJ and producer is a giant in the world of drum and bass thanks to classics from ‘Deep’ to ‘Make You Bounce.’ He will tease tracks from highly anticipated sophomore album Unleash the Wolves, which has been described by Red Bull as “one to move the scene forward,” when he headlines the ninth anniversary party for the Sweatshop crew. Turner, Siesta, Resinate and MC Jado.
Sep 9, 10pm-late, RMB60. The Shelter.
Sep 9: Cages Reopening
Although its original location was shut down a couple of months ago, you can’t keep a good batting cage down. Reopening at the Jing’an Sports Centre, the new cages includes: two sets of batting cages, two squash courts, a bocce ball area, an indoor turf, cricket nets, a hockey shot practice area, billiards, darts, foosball, rec leagues like this month’s Dodgeball League and a children’s play area, plus 88 TV screens airing sports. For the reopening party, they’re giving away pairs of tickets to WWE Live on Sep 10 throughout the night from a lucky draw and for the best WWE superstar lookalike. For more, check out our sneak peek at the new Cages.
Sep 9, 8pm-late, free entry. Cages.
Sep 9&24: Shanghai SIPG Home Games
Shanghai SIPG’s thrilling journey through the AFC Champions League continues after a tense 0-0 draw with Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors but the club has more to worry about than the Sep 13 rematch. They only have two home games this month, but they’re biggies with the always entertainingly bitter rivalry against Beijing Guoan coming to life on September 9 and September 24 battle with defending CSL champs Guangzhou Evergrande. Shanghai SIPG is going to need to get both these games if they want to move up and contend for a spot in next year’s AFC Champions League. Currently standing above them on the league table - the Shanghai Shenhua who host Chongqing Lifan on September 16.
Sep 9 and 24, 7.35pm, RMBTBA. Shanghai Stadium.
Sep 9-11: The Expat Show
Around 10,000 visitors are expected to stop by this massive gathering of the expat community that began in 2007. More than 150 exhibits from industries ranging from education to lifestyle will be on site, with plenty of Expat Show special deals to be expected. A variety of the city’s top restaurants will have pop-up booths, and it’s a great way for newcomers to the city to get immersed.
Sep 9-11, 10am-5pm, RMB50. Shanghai Exhibition Center, see event listing.
Sep 9-17: Unico Shanghai’s 4th Anniversary
The multi-time That’s Shanghai Food and Drink Award winner reopens just in time to celebrate its birthday. Things kick off on Sep 9 with the China debut of Nicola Conte, one of the leaders of the new Italian jazz scene. On Sep 13, the acclaimed Barrio Latino band rocks the house for an authentic bachata night that kicks off the Shanghai Latin Festival. The king of Latin soul, Joe Bataan, plays his first show in China on September 16 showcasing his distinct mix of Latin boogaloo and American doo-wop. The following night, the anniversary parties close with a truly wild experience at the Amazoonia themed party.
Sep 9, 13, 16 and 17, 10pm, free entry (Sep 9 and 13) and RMB100 (Sep 16, Sep 17 for guys). Unico Shanghai.
Sep 9-Oct 9: Art in the City
The K11 affiliated contemporary art festival returns with a focus on the intersection between the art world and other industries in Take Me Out. Once again, there will be showings devoted to the finalists in the open Blast competition encouraging anyone to submit video and audio art, as well as City Art tours taking guests to the city’s art hubs like m50 and the West Bund, as well as to other exciting shows like Photofairs | Shanghai. Stay tuned for our Art in the City preview.
Sep 9-0ct 9. K11 Art Mall.
Sep 10: Climb for Hope
After last year’s smashing debut, the Jing An Shangri-La, West Shanghai opens its doors for a vertical fun run up the 250 meter-high structure – that’s 60 floors and 1,625 steps. Participants receive a complimentary buffet at Calypso Restaurant & Lounge plus a starter kit, while family and friends are welcome to dine together for RMB158 per person. All participation fees will be donated to the Shanghai Children’s Medical Centre. Last year’s event raised RMB45,800 to provide medical treatment to underprivileged children. For more details, click here.
Sep 10, 7.30am, RMB288. Jing An Shangri-La, West Shanghai, see event listing.
Sep 10: The Market Grand Opening
This former public swimming pool has been repurposed into a vibrant community space that’s home to popular local vendors like Cambio Coffee, Dutch Pies, Happy Buddha and the outstanding Asian Plus. While they’ve been hosting events for weeks, they’re officially throwing a grand opening party complete with live art performances, workshops and free food giveaways at select hours.
Sep 10, 10am-8pm, free entry. The Market, see event listing.
Sep 10: Shanghai Latin Bands Summer Festival
ShanghaiFlow brings together some of the city’s finest Latin acts like JZ Club’s Shanghai Latino Project, Mural and Pistolera’s Klibre 5 and Latina’s Brazucas da China to heat up The Pearl. RadioCol will make their Asia debut performing a super-set of Spanish language rock. It’s one of the many exciting concerts at The Pearl this month, which includes a swing night with the band Old Shanghai (Sep 2), a live jazz prohibition party (Sep 9), the tribute concert to disco Discomania (Sep 16) and a visit from the city’s premier sega fusion band Noukilla (Sep 30). Purchase tickets through That's.
Sep 10, 6pm, RMB100-150 (includes one shot). The Pearl, see event listing.
Sep 10: WWE Live
The kings of professional wrestling have been busy making moves in the Mainland inking streaming deals with PPTV and bringing a live show to Shanghai for the first time in three years. It's a star-studded card with John Cena taking on The Big Show and matches from champions (past and present) Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns and Charlotte. The show will be extra notable with the in-ring debut of the company's first Mainland wrestler, Bin Wang.
Sep 10, 7pm, RMB180-1,380. Mercedes-Benz Arena.
Sep 10: pg.lost
The Swedish post-rock group has cultivated a rabid following thanks to a sound that eschews many of the genre cliches. Through frequent tours of the Mainland thanks to their connection to Chengu based promoters New Noise, they've garnered a loyal following they will serve with a 10-city tour to celebrate their latest disc, Versus. For more, check out our feature on pg.lost.
Sep 10, 9pm, RMB120-150. MAO Livehouse, see event listing.
Sep 11: Space Out!
Santo Chino revives his much missed listening party devoted to celebrating one album. Join fellow music lovers in chilling out and listening to Boards of Canada’s debut disc, Music Has the Right To Children on Elevator’s great soundsystem. Also make sure to check out the club at night when it welcomes cutting edge techno producer Gunnar Haslam (Sep 2), slow-motion house and disco favorite Tornado Wallace (Sep 9) and interstellar techno favorite Peter van Hoesen (Sep 10).
Sep 11, 5-11pm, free entry (with RSVP to santochino@gmail.com). Elevator.
Sep 14: Limousine
One of the hardest working bands on the Shanghai scene follow up last year’s rocking Fire Grenades with their latest EP Hot Pursuit. Fellow hometown heroes The Spondees and Revival open, with Limousine merchandise giveaways happening throughout.
Sep 14, 9.30pm, free entry. Yuyintang.
Sep 14: Firebeatz
M2 welcomes the dynamic Dutch duo that whose frantic hits like ‘Where’s Your Head At’ and ‘Funky Shit’ have topped the Beatport charts and won raves from famous fans like Calvin Harris and Tiesto.
Sep 14, 10pm-late, RMB100. M2, see event listing.
Sep 15: Jessica Care Moore
To celebrate its 15 year anniversary, Iron Mic has invited the world renowned poet, activist and filmmaker to perform. The Detroit native has been described by Public Enemy’s Chuck D as “a movement in herself.” In addition to her live performance, there will be a creativity workshop from 4-6pm featuring Shanghai’s poets and emcees, as well as the semi finals of the Shanghai Iron Mic battle starting from 9pm. Purchase tickets through That's.
Sep 15, 4pm-late, RMB150-200. The Pearl, see event listing.
Sep 15: Dynasty Hard Dance Festival
Get ready for a heart-pounding night of dance as MOTI Dance and Art of Dance team up for this Lunar Festival dance party dedicated to hard style and other banging sounds.
Sep 15, 10pm-late, RMB290. QSW Culture Center, see event listing.
Sep 15: W&W
The Dutch duo have rocked the world’s biggest stages thanks to a high-octane genre-bending sound that has resulted in over 10 million plays on Spotify. Famous fans include Hardwell, Armin van Buuren and Tiësto. Last year, they clocked in at 14 on the DJ Magazine Top 100 list.
Sep 15, 10.30pm-late, RMB180. Fusion, see event listing.
Sep 15-16: MOMA Festival
Britpop’s original stars Suede headlines this music festival organized by the long-running Beijing indie label, Tree. Joining Brett Anderson on the bill are Swedish singer-songwriter Hann Turi, Tuvan folk act Yat-Kha, Beijing indie rock icons Carsick Cars, acclaimed Chinese troubadour Zhou Yunpeng and rising Beijing alt-rockers Elenore.
Sep 15-16, 11am-10pm, RMB200-260 (per day). Century Park.
Sep 15-17: Mid-Autumn Festival
The season is changing which means this month it's double public holidays! This year, we'll be getting Thursday, September 15 to Saturday, September 17 off before having to head back to work on the Sunday, plus the big October holiday will take place from October 1-7. For more, check out our post about this year's public holidays.
Sep 16: Anson Chen - Lost in Deception
Just 24 years old, the youthful owner of Bund 18 reveals his passion for magic with the launch of his new show, which will be performed every Friday at Les Suites Orient. For more, check out the KFK podcast with Anson Chen. Tickets available through That's.
Sep 16, 8pm, RMB150. Les Suites Orient, tickets.
Sep 16: Joey Purp
Chicago has been changing the hip hop game in recent years and the Savemoney Collective has been leading the charge thanks to a soulful sound that’s propelled Vic Mensa and Chance the Rapper to fame. Next up is Joey Purp, whose most recent mixtape iiiDrops has been getting raves for mixing Chance’s gospel feel with street rhymes in the spirit of the Windy City’s more hardcore drill rap scene.
Sep 16, 10pm-late, RMB100-150. Arkham.
Sep 16: DJ Snake
Best known for his Lil Jon hit collaboration ‘Turn Down For What,’ the Parisian beat-maker is proving he’s no one-hit wonder. Released last month, his debut disc Encore has already topped the Billboard Dance Chart thanks to singles like the Bieber featuring ‘Let Me Love You.’
Sep 16, 10.30pm-late, RMB230-280. MYST, see event listing.
Sep 16: Concrete + Grass Festival
Formerly known as Echo Park, the Split Works-organized music festival brings the same family-friendly activities and vibes, with an impressive bill headlined by Edison Chen and Sekai no Owari while featuring stalwarts in rap (A$AP Ferg [pictured above], DJ Premier), indie-rock (Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks, Health, The Cribs) and standout acts from China (Chui Wan, Zuriaake, Chinese Football).
Sep 16-17, 11am-11pm, RMB230-300 (RMB360-440 for two day package). Shanghai Rugby Football Club, see event listing.
Sep 16-18 & 24-25: 48 Hour Film Project
Embrace your inner auteur as filmmakers from across the city compete to see who can make the best short film in only 48 hours. Participating teams will choose their film genre in a random draw, and must incorporate some required elements within their project. Teams will find out their requirements at Friday’s kickoff event and must submit the final films on Sunday by 7.30pm. Two public screenings of the best submissions take place the following weekend with the winning film moving on to the global contest Filmapalooza 2017 where the grand prize is a chance to screen at the Cannes Film Festival 2017, Court Métrage. For more, check out our 5 Things with Shanghai 48 Hour Film Organizer Danielle Sumita on how to make a short film in two days.
Kick-off event: Sep 16, 6-7pm, RMB800 (per team). The Market.
Screenings: Sep 24-25, 8pm, RMB70. The Market.
Sep 17: Yuck
The British rockers took the indie world by storm with their feedback drenched 2011 debut. Over their past few discs, Yuck have broadened their sound, adding more psychedelic touches as shown on this year’s Stranger Things. They return to Q.S.W. Culture Center after rocking the house last year. For more, check out our 2015 interview with Yuck.
Sep 17, 8.30-10pm, RMB120-150. QSW Culture Center.
Sep 18: Hanggai
Image by Yang Feng.
There is no road too rough to conquer for arguably China’s most famous band. Already they’ve inspired a Mongolian fusion scene, performed at the world’s most prestigious stages like New York’s Lincoln Center and even vanquished Chinese reality TV, winning the second season of CCTV’s hit show, Sing My Song. Rather than rest on their laurels, the group linked with acclaimed producers Garth Richardson (Rage Against the Machine) and Bob Ezrin (Pink Floyd’s The Wall) to add some seriously rocking psychedelic touches to their already boisterous sound on their standout new disc, Horse of Colors. For more, check out our 2014 interview with Hanggai.
Sep 18, 7.30pm, RMB80-680. Shanghai Oriental Art Center.
Sep 21-22: Fu-Gee-La
After stirring tributes to ABBA and Soul Train, Urban Aphrodite takes over Arkham to salute The Fugees. Some of the city’s finest musicians team up to present their spin on the numerous classics that Wyclef, Pras and L-Boogie cooked up with detours into that era’s other hit songs, as well as the solo work of The Fugees, particularly Lauryn Hill’s classic debut album. Tickets available through That's.
Sep 21-22, 11pm-late, RMB180. Arkham, see event listing.
Sep 22: Girls Night Out Fourth Anniversary
Bar Rouge and MVP Shanghai always pack the house every Thursday with their elegantly wasted Ladies Night known for free cocktails and manicures for the girls until 11.30pm. For their birthday party, expect it to be even rowdier and crazier.
Sep 22, 10pm-late, RMB100. Bar Rouge.
Sep 22-25: The Merchant of Venice
The esteemed Shakespeare Globe are touring the world with their new adaptation of the Bard’s classic. Fresh off his terrifying run in Game of Thrones as the High Sparrow, Jonathan Pryce has been winning wide praise for his take on the complex character Shylock.
Sep 22-25, 7.15pm (with 2pm show on Sat), RMB280-1,080. Shanghai Oriental Art Center, see event listing.
Sep 23: The Fleshtones
Hailing from New York’s original mid-70s punk scene where they cut their teeth at now legendary venues like CBGBs, The Fleshtones have inspired a generation of rockers from White Stripes to The Strokes. Still together with their original lineup after all these years, they’re making their first trip to the Mainland. Hometown heroes Round Eye, The Psyders and DJ BO support.
Sep 23, 9pm, RMB80. Yuyintang, see event listing.
Sep 23-24: Nick Cody
Kung Fu Komedy welcomes the rising stand-up who Bill Burr specifically requested as an opener for a recent show in Australia. Cody has toured across his homeland supporting the likes of Anthony Jeselnik and Jim Jefferies, while building a growing buzz internationally with recent shows at Just for Laughs in Montrel and the New York Comedy Festival.
Sep 23-24, 8.30pm (Fri) 8pm and 10pm (Sat), RMB170-200. Kung Fu Komedy Club.
Sep 23-24: Biggaton
Known for his roots rasta style, the Jamaican reggae sensation brings the current trends in reggae and dancehall to Xintiandi thanks to Popasuda. Skinny Brown supports with a banging set of global bass. Also make sure to check out Reel to Reel on September 9, when Vous Records reintroduces itself by hosting UK house favorites My Digital Enemy.
Sep 23, 10pm-late, RMB60 (with one drink). Reel to Reel, see event listing.
Sep 24, 9pm-late, RMBTBA. Le Baron, see event listing.
Sep 24: theBALL
The centuries old aristocratic tradition of the Venetian Ball returns to the Hyatt on the Bund. In addition to a five-course gourmet dinner and performances from musical masters like renowned erhu virtuoso Ma Xiaohui and soprano Alexandra Reinprecht, theBALL will open with the ceremonial Polonaise dance and follow other traditions including a chic gift from Swarovski to each lady. Strict dress code will be applied for men (white or black tie optional) and women (floorlength ball gowns), so you really will be able to ‘feel the part.’ (Please note that only debutantes will be in white gowns.)
Sep 24, 6pm, starting from RMB1,888. Hyatt on the Bund.
Sep 24: Luluz Follez
Back by popular demand, this cabaret takes inspiration from the Folies Bergere of Paris, a cabaret music hall established in 1869, and the Ziegfeld Follies, a series of elaborate early 20th century Broadway theatrical productions. Performances range from dance to aerial acrobatics. It’s one of the many exciting shows at The Pearl in September with the return of Wild Girls (Sep 17) and Wild Boyz (Sep 23) burlesque. Get your tickets to any of these shows through That’s.
Sep 24, 9pm, RMB180-220. The Pearl, see event listing.
Sep 24-25: The Color Run
The ‘happiest 5K on the planet’ is now held in over 200 cities across 40 countries and is celebrating its fifth birthday. Once again, it returns to Shanghai with three scheduled races. However, it’s not about improving your time but about the literally colorful experience, with participating runners doused in different colors each kilometer of the way.
Sep 24-25, 9.30am-11.30pm (plus 3-5pm on Saturday), RMB208-268. Sunland Green, 628 Qifan Lu, by Laiyang Lu 启帆路628号, 近莱阳路 (www.thecolorrun.com.cn)
Sep 26: Queen + Adam Lambert
This pairing between the legendary UK band and American Idol runner-up Adam Lambert has been a stone cold success. Already, they’ve packed stadiums across the world and drew in over 12 million TV viewers for their 2014 New Year’s Eve live performance on BBC. Recently, they headlined Rock in Rio Lisbon playing to 74,000 people and were announced as headliners to the famed Isle of Wight Festival. They will be making their Mainland debut bringing their five-city Asia tour to Shanghai’s Mercedes-Benz Arena. For more, check out our 2015 interview with Adam Lambert.
Sep 26, 8pm, RMB380-1,680. Mercedes-Benz Arena, see event listing.
Sep 27: Anderson.Paak and the Free Nationals
Dr. Dre’s latest prodigy emerged out of seemingly nowhere landing numerous features on the hip hop legend’s most recent classic, Compton. With an ability to rhyme rapidly à la Kendrick, as well as croon as soulfully as R&B legends of yore, Paak is a musical force on the path to superstardom trodden by past Dre prodigies like Kendrick Lamar, Eminem and Snoop Dogg. He’s bringing his backing band the Free Nationals as they continue their world tour for arguably the album of 2016, Venice.
Sep 27, 10pm, RMB200-250. MAO Livehouse.
Sep 29: Daniel Miller
The Antidote crew celebrates its 11th anniversary by making their long-awaited return to The Shelter with a party headlined by the founder of Mute Records. The trailblazing label has given big breaks to artists like Depeche Mode, Moby and Goldfrapp. As a producer, Miller is best known for his industrial project The Normal but has recently caught the bug to perform again with his Christmas Boiler Room performance in Berlin reaching legendary status. He’ll be joined by Antidote originals B6, MHP and Ozone.
Sep 29, 10pm-late, RMBTBA. The Shelter.
Sep 29-30: IMS Asia-Pacific
After a successful debut last year, Shanghai will be the official host city for the Asia-Pacific stop of the renowned International Music Summit, devoted to discussing issues within the electronic music world. Guest speakers include Skrillex, Alesso, Jolin Tsai and Pete Tong.
Sep 29-30, 11am-6pm, RMB1,480 or RMB2,078-2,478 (with two-day pass to Budweiser STORM Festival). Hyatt on the Bund.
Sep 30: Hiphopera
After a fantastic first full season paying tribute to everyone from Stevie Wonder to country, Encore Live is back at the Mixing Room with an all-star collection of Shanghai based musicians. This show pays tribute to the history of hip hop from its creation in the streets of 1970s New York to its ubiquity today. For more, check out our 2015 feature on Encore Live.
Sep 30, 7pm, RMB180-250. The Mixing Room.
Sep 30: Chris Brown
The controversial Grammy Award winning R&B star is the latest uber-celebrity to grace Sino Group’s high roller lounge. Don’t expect a full performance (if any at all), but Linx will be packed with the city’s beautiful people eager to soak in the aura of Breezy. For more, check out our feature on how Sino Group built a Shanghai clubbing empire.
Sep 30, 10pm-late, RMB280-380. Linx.
Oct 1: Galantis
Despite producing chart-topping hits individually, Karlsson (Britney’s ‘Toxic’) and Eklöw (Icona Pop’s ‘I Love It’) have reached even greater heights with their super-duo. Their debut disc, last year’s Pharmacy, scored two Grammy nominations and was streamed over 430 million times, thanks to infectious hits like ‘Runaway (U & I).’
Oct 1, 10pm-late, RMB150. M2.
Oct 1-2: Budweiser STORM Festival
Since starting out three years ago, the Budweiser Storm Festival has established itself as a bona fide October holiday tradition. Last year, they sold out all tickets on both nights, and they’re back for another star-studded edition headlined by Hardwell and Skrillex, this time at Shanghai Shendi, a massive location near Shanghai Disney.
Oct 1-2, 1-11pm, RMB350 (per day), RMB680 (two-day pass), RMB680-1,180 (Vip passes). Shanghai Shendi.
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