Don't Miss:
The "Live with Jessie J Tour" in Shanghai
British pop sensation Jessie J is back in China, kicking off her "Live with Jessie J" tour after six years away. Shanghai fans can catch her at the Mercedes-Benz Arena on November 27 for a night of powerhouse vocals and top hits, including "Price Tag," "Domino," and "Bang Bang," plus fan-favorites like "Thunder."
Live Music Picks By Will / LiveChinaMusic |
Will Griffith is a photographer, videographer, writer, and music promoter living in Shanghai. He’s the founder of LiveChinaMusic - a platform dedicated to China's evolving underground music scene.
Modern Sky Lab (Ruihong Tiandi)
Date: Thur, 8:30pm
Address: 3/F, Ruihong Tiandi, 188 Ruihong Lu | All Details
Price: Earlybird: 200rmb/person, Presale: 240rmb/person, Full price: 280rmb/person
Yard Act - the Leeds band that exploded onto the scene in 2022 - soaking up accolades and awards across the board - from NME Best New Act in the World to the Mercury Prize Album of the Year - and hasn’t slowed down since. ‘Masters of capturing the absurdity of modern life and wrapping it up in earwormy tunes’ the band falls into that snarky upbeat post punk class - a sound infused with punk energy, danceable rhythms, and a tongue-in-cheek spoken-word poetic poise - evoking everyone from The Fall, Pulp, Gang of Four, Gorillaz, and the Rapture. ‘The soundtrack to embracing today’s chaos with a smirk’ the band is fresh off their latest LP, ‘Where’s My Utopia?’ and will be making their China debut tonight at Modernsky Lab.
Yuyintang Park
Date: Thur, 8:30pm
Address: B1/F, 1398 Yuyuan Lu | All Details
Price: 180rmb
Brainstory from Los Angeles offers up their unique brand of the psychedelic, jazzy soul - the kind of music made for a breezy sunny afternoon. Composed of brothers Kevin and Tony Martin (guitar/vocals and bassist) and Eric Hagstrom (drummer) their music ranges from sweet soul ballads to pop songs with a psychedelic rock flair, and folk tunes infused with the smooth jazz R&B style of the ‘70s, showcasing a fusion of genres while expressing a transcendence and freedom that honors classic jazz. Simply put, it goes down really nicely. The band is making their China debut in support of their new LP - SOUNDS GOOD - which as one can guess sounds damn good.
VAS Livehouse
Date: Fri, 8pm
Address: 3/F, 19 Wanhangdu Lu | All Details
Price: 296rmb
696 - the shapeshifting venue, label, and platform that’s been grinding it out for fifteen years on and off celebrate with a star-studded affair at the newly minted (and enormous VAS est) with a killer lineup of rock and roll. Leading the pack are the Shanghainese legends themselves Top Floor Circus - the carnivalesque romp through folk, rock, pop, crosstalk and punk led by Lu Chen - a man whose transformative stage persona will hopefully be in full force tonight. Joining are Guangzhou indie juggernauts Mercader, whose guitar-heavy melodies and crooning anthemic vocals bring to life their jarring mix of post-punk, no-wave, and indie rock, with a sneaking, gritty Canto-pop vibe lurking underneath that can turn on a dime. Rounding out the lineup are Ningbo-dialect singing indie act HuanChao - who craft low-key, poetic urban folk with a dream pop-soul lurking deep within, and Hangzhou premier ska outfit The Bricks.
Bandai Namco Dream Hall
Date: Fri, 8:30pm
Address: 179 Yichang Lu | All Details
Price: 120rmb
Instrumental groove masters Sleeping Dogs - a supergroup of Beijing-based indie musicians - returned with their latest EP, Cliche, earlier this month. Brainy sublime ethno-influenced tunes - think Khruangbin, Fela Kuti, or some of Madlib’s more esoteric projects - the band spices up their usual blend of Afrobeat, jazz, and funk with dub, library music, and more - giving their bewitching sound a leisurely subtropical touch. Rich in texture and flavor, there’s an intrepid spirit at the heart of their sound - making every track a pleasure to get lost in. The band is rounding up the troops for a nationwide tour. Support from spin doctor and loft hip hop producer Jinsfake.
Specters
Date: Sat, Nov 23, 8:30pm
Address: Bldg D, 753 Yuyuan Lu | All Details
Price: 100rmb
Now based in the sun-baked delirium of Los Angeles, Alpine Decline - who cut their teeth with the Beijing indie scene and Maybe Mars over ten years ago continues honing their dystopian psychedelic rock sound on their latest release with Maybe Mars - Underground Hits from the Far Out Distant Future: Volumes I-IV - which finds the main duo - vocalist and guitarist Jonathan Zeitlin and drummer Pauline Mu - shaping a narrative around themes of science fiction, fantasy, romance and horror across four different studio spaces. It’s a glorious capsulation of the band’s various modes - including their more recent shift toward cosmic-Americana - striking a warmly tender and euphoric sound that comes across like the cosmic lovechild of bands like Simon & Garfunkel, Tama Impala, Cass McCombs, and 70s era psych pop. The band is flying over in support of the new LP - with a stop at Specters where they’ll be supported by none other than post punk trio Solid Liqui.
Bandai Namco Dream Hall
Date: Sun, Nov 24, 8pm
Address: 179 Yichang Lu | All Details
Price: 160rmb
‘Like-minded duos known for cinematic and raw sounds as well as merging transglobal melodies with undeniable grooves’ - Beijing’s Gong Gong Gong teamed up with Taipei’s Mong Tong to soundtrack a (imagined) lost kung-fu film on the new LP Mongkok Duel 旺 角 龍 虎 鬥. Essentially two bands whose sonic aesthetics align jamming out in the renowned President Piano Co. rehearsal rooms in Mongkok, Hong Kong, it combines the propulsion thrust of Gong Gong Gong with the delirious subtropical psychedelia of Mong Tong - acting as supple and richly rendered soundtrack music that someone like Tarantino might have discovered in a bargain bin in Chinatown. The bands with be swinging through Shanghai this week - with each act giving a solo set before teaming up for an epic jam session.
Bandai Namco Dream Hall
Date: Sun, Nov 24, 8:30pm
Address: 179 Yichang Lu | All Details
Price: 160-220rmb
Chengdu’s STOLEN takes listeners on a dystopian romp through an AI-led revolution on their latest EP - I GENERATED. Full of the electro-rock act’s pulsating melding of techno and arena rock, it finds the band having fun with AI tropes and imagining a world where our digital messiahs have gone rogue. Pulpy fun with lines like ‘Could it be a part of you or is it AI deja vu?’ running alongside propulsive post-punk rave tunes, the band is hitting the road in support of their new EP. One of the most magnetic live acts out there.
Specters
Date: Sun, Nov 24, 8pm
Address: Bldg D, 753 Yuyuan Lu | All Details
Price: 100-120rmb
Kazakh folk rock band from Urumqi, Xinjiang, SINTAS (taking its name from the totem of ancient Eurasian grassland nomads centered around sun and fertility) was founded in 2014 by long-standing musicians, both influenced by legendary acts like Roksonaki and by contemporaries like Mamer. Combining rock arrangements and Kazakh national instruments - such as dombra, kubuz, sibuzie, and shankubuzi (mouth strings), the band touches on everything from originals, interpretations of classic poems, and the traditional instrumental music of the Kazakh region. There’s a no-frills rustic attitude to the music here, which can even dip toward Pink Floyd-influenced psych rock territory - giving the grassland music both the reverence it deserves and the channel to reinvent itself.
Exit
Date: Fri,10pm-late
Address: 298 Xingfu Lu | All Details
Price: Presale: 80rmb/person, Door: 130rmb/person
Sunil Sharpe, the guest for Aqualung's 7th anniversary, is widely regarded as Ireland's leading techno turntablist. With over two decades immersed in the techno scene, his performances are known for their intensity, precision, and raw energy, often leaving audiences with a visceral physical response. Sharpe's mixing style, described as "live by the sword, die by the sword," reflects his unmatched dedication and focus. Aqualung, rooted in experimental machine-funk and techno, offers an immersive escape in the heart of Shanghai, blending music with the calming and creativity-enhancing effects of aquatic-inspired environments. Previous guests have included Drvg Cvltvre, Umwelt, Abelle, E-Saggila, MANASYt, Parrish Smith, Maoupa Mazzocchetti, and local talents.
ALL Club
Date: Sat, Nov 23, 9pm-late
Address: 2/F, 17 Xiangyang Bei Lu | All Details
Price: 60-160rmb
L-Vis 1990, a pioneering force in dance music, has made his mark as a producer, DJ, and co-founder of the influential label Night Slugs, hailed by Hypebeast for redefining UK club music. Known for blending diverse subgenres, his work spans labels like PMR, Warp, and Mad Decent, with collaborations including Flohio, Gaika, and Lord Narf, shaping the sound of artists like Mura Masa. Praised by Diplo and A-Trak, and called Calvin Harris’s “favorite DJ,” he also founded nineteen90.studio, leading innovative projects for Prada, Nike, and others, while his work with Skrillex and Flowdan continues to make waves across music and visual arts.
SYSTEM
Date: Sat, Nov 23, 10pm-late
Address: 3/F, Yunhai Mansion, 1329 Huaihai Zhong Lu | All Details
Price: 178rmb
Teletech, founded in Manchester, is a leading global Hard Techno party brand known for its iconic, sold-out events. Among its top talents is Charlie Sparks, one of Europe’s hottest Hard Techno artists. With millions of Spotify streams, viral YouTube videos, and performances alongside legends like I Hate Models, he’s been featured at major festivals and praised by top media. Known for blending Psy-Trance, Industrial, and Acid elements with intense, fast-paced beats, his tracks like Welcome to London (16M Spotify plays) showcase his distinctive style, redefining the genre and dominating streaming platforms.
Potent Club
Date: Sat, Nov 23
Address: 3/F, Tx Mall, 523 Huaihai Zhong Lu | All Details
Price: 100rmb (free for ladies who follow their Xiaohongshu account)
Berlin-based DJs Kim She and AYLIN IDAH are known for their high-energy performances that connect deeply with audiences, whether in underground clubs or major festivals. AYLIN IDAH, a former drummer, blends genres like high-speed dance and psy bass into dynamic sets, performing at iconic venues such as Tresor, RSO, and clubs across Europe. Kim She, an explosive rising star, brings unpredictable energy to top events like Intercell and RadioonAmsterdam, continually redefining her sound. This Saturday, they join forces at TENT for an electrifying all-night set.
AIA Grand Theatre
Date: From Nov 22 until Nov 24,7:30pm/2:30pm
Address: 889 Dongdaming Lu | All Details
Price: 180-1080rmb
' The Peacock' is a dance work created and launched by Yang Liping in 2012, adapted from Yang's famous work 'Spirit of Peacock.' She is known across China for her creativity and performance in the peacock dance. Yang has been dubbed as the 'Peacock Princess of China'. The dance drama shows the magical peacock world of spring, summer, autumn, and winter. It depicts many peacock portraits with great metaphors and is full of ethnic customs, which conveys the artist's thinking and understanding of art and life in the process of growing up. The 2024 tour of this edition will arrive in Shanghai on November 22 and performed for four days. Ticket price ranges from 180-1080rmb.
Poly Grand Theatre
Date: Sat, Nov 23, 7:30pm
Address: 159 Baiyin Lu | All Details
Price: 480-880rmb
John Owen-Jones, a renowned West End and Broadway star, will bring his acclaimed vocal talents to Shanghai on November 23, 2024, for a one-night-only concert. Known for his record-breaking performances in Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera, Owen-Jones has wowed audiences worldwide, including at iconic venues such as the Royal Albert Hall, Carnegie Hall, and Moscow’s Bolshoi Theatre. With a career spanning decades, his performances have garnered numerous accolades, including being the youngest actor to play Jean Valjean in Les Misérables in London’s West End. Fans can expect a night filled with powerful ballads from some of the most beloved musicals, including Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, and Beauty and the Beast. This concert promises to be a stunning showcase of his extraordinary voice, accompanied by special guest performer Xu Lidong, a celebrated musical theatre artist in China.
Overseas Chinese Town Grand Theatre
Date: Every Fri, Sat, Sun until Nov 30,7:30pm/1pm/5pm
Address: Shanghai Happy Valley No.888 Linhu Lu | All Details
Price: starts at 188rmb
The Legends of the Silk Road, debuting at the Shanghai Happy Valley Overseas Chinese Town Grand Theatre in July 2024, is an international circus featuring top performers from over 20 countries, including Kazakhstan, Russia, and Ukraine. Inspired by the Silk Road, the show blends cutting-edge technology with captivating artistry to promote cultural exchange and unity. With a thrilling mix of aerial acrobatics, clown acts, and stunning visual effects, audiences will embark on an enchanting journey with a brave couple battling an evil sorcerer. Performances run once from Fri-Sun, starting at 1pm or 5pm on weekends and 7:30pm on Fridays. The 80-minute spectacle showcases global talent and creativity, with tickets starting at 188rmb. VIP seats are available for 688rmb, which includes Happy Valley admission. Children under 1.2 meters enjoy free entry.
The Pearl
Date: Daily until Nov 24,8.30pm
Address: 471 Zhapu Lu | All Details
Price: 150-220rmb
Winter’s almost here, and so is the annual Pearl Floyd – Pink Floyd tribute concert! From November 21-24, the Pearl will host four epic nights celebrating Pink Floyd’s greatest hits, performed by the Red Stars Band and special guests. Expect mind-blowing visuals and iconic tracks like Sheep, Comfortably Numb, Wish You Were Here, and Shine On You Crazy Diamond. Plus, fan favorites like Alex’s aerial guitar solo during Learning to Fly.
Concordia International School Shanghai (CISS)
Date: Nov 21st 12pm-2:3pm & Nov 23rd - 9am-11am,12:30-2:30pm/ 9am-11am
Address: 345 Huangyang Lu | All Details
Discover how Concordia Shanghai nurtures confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning at their Open Days on Nov 21th and 23rd. Parents and students are invited to explore Concordia’s vibrant campus, experience engaging classroom activities, and connect with educators who inspire academic excellence and personal growth. With a comprehensive American-style education enriched by sports, fine arts, and applied learning, Concordia is committed to helping each student reach their full potential. For those unable to attend, private tours and virtual visits are available. Contact the admissions team for more information.
Yoseikan Cross Training
Date: Sat, Nov 23, 8:30
Address: 4/F, 1 Maoming Nan Lu | All Details
Price: 68-218rmb
In 2024, Yoseikan Budo celebrates five years in the community, marking the anniversary with a full day of classes, activities, and demonstrations at the YSK Cross Training Club in Huangpu. Complimentary drinks and snacks will be available throughout the day, including tea, coffee, and light refreshments. The schedule includes a variety of discovery classes and demonstrations: from 9am to 6pm, the open gym will welcome participants with limited hourly slots; 8:30-9:10am features Morning Energy Yoga; 9:30-10:30am is for Adults Traditional Budo (15 years and older); 10:30-10:55am showcases a Yoseikan Budo Traditional Demonstration; 11-11:45am is for Kids Budo (ages 5-9); 10:30-11:30am offers Pilates; 1:30-2:30pm is Adults Modern Budo (15 years and older); 2:30-2:55pm presents a Yoseikan Budo Sportive Demonstration; 1-2pm includes another Pilates class; 3-4pm is for Kids Budo (ages 10-14); 3:30-4:30pm features a third Pilates class; 4-4:40pm offers Body Combat; and 5-5:40pm concludes with SMI Sports Intelligence. Spots are limited, so booking is recommended. For inquiries, contact the hotline at +86-13472809281.
Magnolia Kindergarten
Date: Sat, Nov 23, 9:30-13:30
Address: 57 Jiangyin Lu | All Details
Price: free entry
Magnolia Kindergarten invites children and families to the World Harvest Festival, a lively celebration of global harvest traditions! Kids can explore different cultures through fun activities like food tastings, art displays, cooking classes, and hands-on handicraft workshops, discovering the joy and diversity of harvest festivals from around the world. Date & Time: Saturday, November 23, 9:30am–1:30pm.
The University of Manchester China Centre
Date: Fri, 7pm
Address: Suite 2901, 29/F, L'Avenue, 99 Xianxia Lu | All Details
Price: Free entrance
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) plays a vital role within the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework, emphasizing fairness, respect, and equal opportunities in organizations and society. As DEI becomes an increasingly critical priority in today’s ESG-driven world, the University of Manchester China Centre will host Curtis Baker, Head of Inclusion, Diversity & Equity, Asia Pacific at Dow, on the evening of November 22 to discuss its importance and practical implementation. Curtis Baker leads the Inclusion, Diversity & Equity (ID&E) and Employee Experience (EX) strategy for Dow in the Asia Pacific region, reporting directly to the company’s Chief Inclusion Officer. His work focuses on advancing the social aspect of Dow’s ESG strategy, fostering sustainable cultural change, and amplifying regional voices on a global scale. With a background in public relations and certifications in DEI for HR from Cornell University, he is an advisor for organizations like IPWS and Out & Equal APAC Council and was named one of sHero China’s Top DEI Leaders. Recognized as the 2023 HeForShe recipient from IPWS, Curtis previously held HR and DEI leadership roles at Shanghai Disney Resort during his eight years with The Walt Disney Company China.
Nebula School (Xuhui Campus)
Date: on Nov 23 and Nov 24, 2024,11am-6pm
Address: 21 Donghu Lu | All Details
Price: Free entrance
Commune Market returns to Shanghai this weekend, taking place on November 23-24, 2024, at Nebula School’s outdoor courtyard near Donghu Lu. From 11am to 6pm on both days, explore a curated selection of local arts, crafts, fashion, jewelry, and kids’ products. The event features live music, interactive games, and plenty of green space for children, making it an ideal family-friendly outing. Best of all, entry is free. Don’t miss out!
China Europe International Business School (CEIBS)
Date: Sat, Nov 23, 13:30-16:00
Address: 699 Hongfeng Lu | All Details
Price: free entry
Join CEIBS for the MBA Student Reception on November 23, 2024, from 14:00-16:00 at the CEIBS Shanghai Campus. This special session, "Navigating Sustainable Success in Your Career," features a GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey Report, insights from CEIBS MBA 2026 students, and a keynote speech by Yulia Jiang, Head of School Relations, Greater China at GMAC. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with MBA student ambassadors who come from diverse industries such as finance, education, consulting, and general management. The event will be held in English, and registration can be completed via the provided QR code.
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