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Shanghai Weekender: Our Picks for the Best Events this Weekend

Your roundup of all the best stuff to get up to this weekend…
2023-10-19 12:00:00

Arts & Stage

Drawing on contemporary dance, Chinese folk dance, and the classical Indian dance form of Kathak, "Samsara" is inspired by the many monks believed to have attempted the long pilgrimage that eventually inspired the classic 16th-century Chinese story, "Journey to the West." Aakash has garnered worldwide attention for his impeccable and virtuosic Kathak performances, while Hu is recognized as one of the outstanding performers of his generation.

Shanghai Ballet, in collaboration with renowned British choreographer Derek Deane, showcases a grand ballet rendition of the classic novel. Having crafted masterpieces for the likes of The Royal Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet, and English National Ballet, Deane's touch is unmistakable. Catch this exclusive performance for two nights only: October 24 and 25.

Nightlife & Clubbing

The Pearl is collaborating with EE (Exclusive Executive) and FOS (Friends Of Shanghai) for a unique twist on their Rocktoberfest Night. This isn't your typical Pearl evening; EE, a distinguished private club frequented by senior execs and business magnates, meets FOS, famed for its trendy, entrepreneurial, and dare we say... audacious patrons. Put them together? You're in for an electrifying mix and undeniable good vibes. Get ready for a night bursting with dynamic performances and premium entertainment, headlined by the captivating Cocosanti. Pick your poison: 188rmb for the show and 3 drink coupons, or 488rmb to add some gourmet food platters. Doors at 6pm, spotlight on at 8:30pm. If you're in the mood for world's colliding and a chance to meet people across Shanghai's social spectrum, this is probably going to be a very fun door to open. 

Tomorrow

HUN

"HUN" makes a much-anticipated return to Club Roza, promising an evening drenched in mystery, romance, and stories told through beats. Four top-tier DJs are on deck to dish out pulsating rhythms and craft an electrifying ambiance. Notably, Shanghai's own Liquid Mechanics—with his fervent love for minimal, house, and break beats—will spotlight contemporary music's finest. Mark your calendar for an auditory journey.

Oct 21 at The Rocky Horror Halloween Show, dive deep into an audaciously risqué and gender-twisted take on the cult classic we all love to sin by. The Pearl dares to tread the path to Frankenfurter's domain—uncover the mysteries of the slab, the lab, and the fate of the iconic Fay Wray. Pre-sale tickets are pegged at 200rmb, and they're selling faster than a rocket from a cold launch. Grab yours now! Doors crack open at 9:30pm; the decadence unfolds at 10pm. Strictly for grown-ups.

Sad Gorilla Club pairs with Tap That Wuding Road for a dual anniversary bash not to be missed. Dive into a beer paradise with 18 selections from 9 standout Chinese breweries. Tempt your palate with Yunnan treats from SLURP!, and get risky with 7 Sad Shots, a creation by Mark Lloyd of J.Boroski and The Upper Room fame. Score some free merch, snag prizes, and oh—here's the kicker: indulge in a 2-hour free flow for just 188rmb. Snatch those limited early-bird tickets for 148rmb and revel in the steal. Cheers to stellar deals Shanghai!

Bask in the final hues of fall this Saturday, October 21, from 3pm to 11pm. La Suite and Wanda Reign Hotel invite you to an unforgettable soirée set against the mesmerizing backdrop of the Bund. By the way, if you haven't been to the Wanda Rein yet, they claim to be a 7-star hotel or something... its definitely a prime example of "Chinese Ultra Lux", worth a look. As daylight gives way to a starry night, you won't want to miss out, their rooftop has a cool view of the bund. Early birds get in at 108rmb, presale goes for 138rmb, while the door charge is 168rmb—all inclusive of a drink to kickstart the revelry. Cheers to moments under the sun and stars!  

Prepare to set sail on a swashbuckling adventure as The Pearl debuts its most ambitious production yet: 'Pirates of the Pearl'. Dive into an interactive theater where tales from 'Pirates of the Caribbean', 'Princess Bride', and 'One Piece' intertwine with legendary stories of real-life buccaneers. As sea shanties fill the air and suspense lingers, The Pearl beckons you to dress as your favorite pirate and be part of the lore. Presale tickets are set at 388rmb, and it's 458rmb if you're walking the plank at the door. Elevate the evening with a curated dinner menu by Chef Lung (HLK) and sip on exclusive whiskey, gin, and rum concoctions crafted by the wizards at Hai Seas Distillery. Hoist the colors and join the crew Shanghai. 

A decade ago, Funkadeli threw open its doors on Yongkang Lu, and, man, what a ride it's been! At first it was the "little italy" hang out for the Italians which had this unpretentious vibe that drew everyone else in. Now, they're throwing a monster bash to mark 10 glorious years. Expect a veritable who's-who of Shanghai's DJ scene to provide the beats, and be ready to swim in a sea of G&Ts. A big, boisterous cheers to the Funkadeli crew. Let the good times roll from 4pm till the wee hours. Congrats Funka group, keep it going!

Sat, Oct 21, 2023

Movement 动作

Dive deep into Shanghai's electronic pulse with Movement动作, a thriving hub for alternative and underground dance beats. Boasting an eclectic lineup of live artists and DJs, a night with Movement is more than just a party; it's an inclusive sanctuary for music aficionados and those seeking stellar company. Join the rhythm, embrace the vibe.

Kids & Family

on Oct 21 and Oct 22, 2023

Maker Faire Shanghai 2023

The Maker Faire has always been a hugely popular event for families and "makers" in Shanghai. For those of you who've just arrived, here's a primer on the event. Originating in California in 2006, the Maker Faire is an immersive festival where folks can participate in interactive workshops and hands-on activities, with opportunities to use some really cool modern tech. From 3D printing and robotics to drones and woodworking, there's plenty of kid-friendly fun. This October, it’s returning to Yuanmingyuan Road, next to Beijing East Road. The previous 2021 event attracted more than 20,000 visitors, and this year's event promises to be even bigger. The 2023 edition will feature more science shows, entertainment, and a new food market. So, if you get hungry, there's plenty to eat. Kids under a height of 1.2 meters get in for free, but please note that pets are not allowed during this event.

Rolling In The Park is Shanghai's large-scale family music festival. It's so large, that it serves as a benchmark for similar events all over China. This event caters to all families, with children aged 1-18, the festival showcases the finest in global integrated arts and cultural elements in music, exhibitions, and theater. This creates a diverse platform for both appreciating and displaying children's art from an international perspective. Rolling In The Park masterfully blends energetic holiday adventures with exceptional camping experiences, offering a distinctive holiday destination. The festival features world-renowned performances across various genres, including pop, jazz, disco, funk, hip-hop, rock and roll, ballads, and hosts family parties.

Community

Horror buffs, it's time to shine at The Hai! Unleash your inner cinephile and tackle 60 spine-chilling questions, topped with a rapid-fire round, all dedicated to your beloved horror flicks. All trivia masters can sink their teeth into a burger and wash it down with a drink, all for 88rmb. And don't ghost on the Happy Hour—it's lurking till 10pm. Scare up a team and head down.

Shanghai's super fun filipino community is putting their party shoes on! Join the Philippine Chamber of Business and Professionals Shanghai as they roll out the Filipino Fun Fair & Pop-up Market at Bubba’s in Shangkang Li. This gathering isn't just a market; it's a radiant showcase of Filipino culture, flavors, and entrepreneurial flair right here in Shanghai. If you haven't been to the Philippines yet, their food is goooood. Dive into hearty Filipino comfort dishes, sips, and sweet treats that'll transport you straight to Manila. And while you're savoring the tastes, groove to live music, try your luck with bingo, and eye those tantalizing gift prizes up for grabs. Salamat to Shanghai's spirited Filipino community for bringing a slice of the Philippines to our doorstep. Tara na and join the fun po ;-)

Dinning & Deals

Zeitgeist is transporting Oktoberfest right to Shanghai! Dive into a bona fide "Früschoppen" brunch, replete with traditional Oktoberfest treats—or as they'd call it, "Schmankerln". Amplifying the festive feel, Manfred Mailänder will be there, serenading you with live tunes. Craving a drink? Go a-la-carte or opt for the indulgent free-flow (11am-3pm) at 198rmb, which covers the refreshing Ayinger "Jahrhundert Bier" Lager, their standard beer selection, house wines, Prosecco, Aperol-Campari Spritz, and a lineup of soft drinks and juices. Prost!

TELL EVERYONE