[SH Weekender]: The Very Best Events Happening This Weekend

Bursting at the seams with a visceral intensity Tokyo’s soccer. Are the latest emo act to grace China’s stages - tapping into an adolescent angst that feels all too appropriate. With a strong screamo styling that finds its singer laying it all out there and a Midwest musicality - it strikes a raw nerve. The band will be kicking off their nationwide tour in Shanghai at Yuyintang Park with support from Shanghai’s own twinkle emo purveyors dinner in haze, who has emerged as one of 2024’s best new acts. Let’s get emotional.

Long-standing genre-twisting Yunnan folk-rock outfit Shanren are back! Around for over two decades now the five-piece aims to promote and preserve the colorful and diverse heritage of Yunnan and Guizhou’s many ethnic minority tribes through original compositions and re-workings of local folk melodies fusing indigenous music with modern styles while showcasing a variety of traditional instruments such as the Xianzi, Qinqin and Dabiya and more. They’ve been headliners at festivals here and aboard, and they’re on the road again with a stop at Mao Livehouse. Legends in their own right, if you’re looking for an infectious good time look no further.

Celebrate XMAS early this season with riotous party starters Jen’s Curfew - Specters’ resident house band who se happy-go-lucky jukebox of jams, originals, and covers have may them audience favorites. So get out your ugliest sweater and head out for a night of festive chaos, live music, and holiday hilarity. Expect plenty of gift-wrapped treats, musical guests, and prizes.

Seminal Xi’an post-punk outfit Fazi, a band that has been challenging themselves for well over a decade, are enjoying their newfound lust for rock and roll this year - performing at SXSW, touring the live houses that first gave them their start earlier this summer, and releasing their latest album Oriental 101 w Future Prairie. A mammoth reimagining of the band’s best (and often times underlooked) songs, it touches on every point of their career and their sonic palette - from the ethereal and sincere New Order-esque codas to their more mania-driven earworms that one can’t help but shake to. A crowd-pleasing reintroduction to one of the scene’s most steadfast acts - expect the band to be firing on all cylinders tonight.

Via the shoreline of Sanya, Hainan - particularly the communities untouched by the encroaching commercialism and tourism - Tragic Prescription follows in the footsteps of bands like No Party for Caodong and Miserable Faith - injecting their socially conscious indie rock with a layer of Buddhist angst. The young guitar rockers’ rugged musicality - a blend of folk rock at its heaviest - is one of the most sought-after new acts in the scene - catch them at Singer Space as part of their nationwide tour.

United Lake turns six! To celebrate its sixth anniversary, Heim has decided to bring it back for a special edition, hosting an annual musical reunion. This Saturday, Heim welcomes RHR, the street-savvy talent from São Paulo. RHR’s sound carries a subtle intensity, embodying his attitude. His style blends Techno, Bass, Electro, Dancehall, and Baile Funk. The lineup also features DJs EBP, Illsee, Taidi, and YKK.

NEW IDEA, a curatorial organization from New York, bridges art, ideas, music, and audience engagement through tailored, museum-grade exhibitions. Photographer A. Hiliard, known for working with Future, A$AP Rocky, Travis Scott, and others, will document the event live. The party marks the China debut of 25-year-old artist Shemar Pierre from Philadelphia, whose style fuses Electronic, Hip-Hop, and Alternative sounds, inspired by Tame Impala and Ecco2k. His upcoming project NEXUS: Disci-pline captures a sound uniquely his own. The lineup also includes NA$TY, Kin.J, Guz, Lavk403, and Li’s STUDIO [VJ].

Kidä, a multifaceted artist, has become a powerful force in contemporary music, known for her ethereal voice, intricate sound design, and haunting melodies. With Italian-Egyptian heritage, her music bridges ancient and modern influences, blending R&B, psychedelic tones, and Italian B-movie flair. Collaborations with Yves Tumor (Lovely Sewer) and Gaika (Drift) have cemented her reputation, with her debut EP, Burn to Make It Glow, earning critical acclaim. Her latest single, Sand Invades Everything, is a bold sonic journey of basslines and distorted synths. Through her project A Portal to Jump Through, Kidä explores sound’s role in film, fashion, and art, while Portal: Vol. I fuses folk, electronic noise, and Arabic elements, continuing her exploration of resonance across time and culture.

The Pearl and Awesome Kids present The Frog King & Toad Emperor, a whimsical family show packed with slapstick comedy, magic, music, and audience interaction. Follow the hilarious antics of the Frog King and Toad Emperor as they navigate the chaos of sharing a magic wand with limitless power. Perfect for kids aged 3+, this 40-minute show guarantees laughter and surprises. Doors open at noon with a brunch menu by Chef Lung featuring dishes like Salmon Eggs Benedict, Breakfast Poutine, and vegetarian options. Parents can enjoy free-flow drinks while kids revel in the pre-show live music. A fun, family-friendly outing awaits!

This enchanting performance for children is a poetic exploration of nature, change, and the passage of time. Set against a picturesque backdrop, the show uses lyrical music, modern dance-inspired movement, and playful puppetry to engage young audiences, while offering a calming, healing experience for adults. The performance gently explores how everything in nature evolves, from the setting sun to the changing seasons, and how these transformations shape our world. A perfect blend of art and nature for all ages, this show invites both children and adults to reflect, observe, and feel the rhythm of life. Suitable for children aged 1 and above.

Step into a magical world this holiday season with The Quest for Happiness Crystals, a captivating live adventure for kids aged 2-12. Join the brave knight Marcus, the kind fairy Ophelia, and a clueless blacksmith on a quest to recover the stolen Crystals of Happiness from a lonely dragon. With interactive storytelling, stunning 3D animation, and costumes inspired by classic fairy tales, this show immerses children in the action, teaching them the true meaning of happiness: friendship and teamwork. It’s a heartwarming journey through enchanted forests, sparkling rivers, and a climactic dragon showdown—perfect for the whole family.

INFIN Wrestling unites legends from the world’s top federations for a night of high-octane action honoring the iconic Antonio Inoki. Expect a thrilling mix of explosive wrestling moves, intense rivalries, and larger-than-life drama as the wrestlers face off in the ring—and battle their inner demons. The event promises non-stop action, with every slam and suplex guaranteed to have the crowd cheering, booing, and roaring with excitement. This is more than just a wrestling match—it’s a celebration of the sport’s history and the man who helped shape it. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for a night of pure, unfiltered entertainment, INFIN Wrestling delivers an unforgettable experience. Bring your energy, grab a drink, and get ready to be part of the action!

The Pearl’s back with a brand new show, Welcome to the Greatest Show, an electrifying musical cabaret inspired by The Greatest Showman. Expect an unforgettable night with a full cast of singers, dancers, aerialists, and cirque performers who’ll take you on a journey into a world of wonder. Don’t miss this dazzling spectacle—grab your tickets now and step into the magic!

Catch British piano prodigy Benjamin Grosvenor as he graces the stage at the Jaguar Shanghai Symphony Hall on December 14. Known for his incredible technique and soulful interpretations, Grosvenor will present a captivating program that includes Brahms' introspective Three Intermezzi, Ravel's haunting Gaspard de la Nuit, and Mussorgsky's vibrant Pictures at an Exhibition. Expect an evening filled with musical storytelling and technical brilliance that’ll linger long after the last note.

Experience the grandeur of "Ludwig II: The Return of the King," an original German musical staged concert that brings to life the opulent and captivating story of Ludwig II. This production stands out with its operatic music, showcasing a rich blend of classical singing and dramatic flair. Debuting in Shanghai, this newly crafted musical staged concert promises a visually stunning experience with its condensed yet refined stage design, complemented by exquisite costumes and lavish styling. Featuring a stellar cast and backed by a 65-piece orchestra, the production stays true to its roots, delivering a powerful rendition that immerses audiences in the classical and solemn music that defines Ludwig II's dreams and fairy tale legacy.

ABORO is hosting Punch It Out charity boxing classes every Sunday from December 8 to January 26, from 10:30am to 11:30am, at its Jing’an studio. Designed to support children with cancer or congenital heart disease, the classes cost 100rmb each, with all proceeds donated directly to the cause. Participants can improve their fitness while contributing to a meaningful effort—every punch helps bring hope to those in need.