Shanghai has been a regional arts center in China for a long time. Many artistic performances and activities have been held at the east China metropolis, and the upcoming China Shanghai International Arts Festival (CSIAF) is one of the most influential ones. 

Established in 1999, the annual CSIAF has grown into an important cultural exchange event and one of the leading arts festivals in the world. 

'Red Repertoires'

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China (PRC), and a series of "red repertoires" are highlights at this edition of CSIAF. Red repertoires refer to patriotic plays that praise and commemorate the revolution and its heroic figures. 

The acrobatic show "Zhan Shanghai," jointly created by Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe and Shanghai Circus School will kick off the CSIAF. The show uses the battle of Shanghai Campaign as its historical backdrop, and will display touching stories of young people pursuing their dreams.  

"Yihao Jimi," which tells the story of  protecting confidential papers in 1931, will also premiere at the Shanghai Grand Theatre on October 23.

Art forum

Besides performances, other artistic activities will also be held during the CSIAF. The 21st China Shanghai International Arts Festival forum includes one keynote forum, 10 sub-forums, and one workshop.  

The forum, themed "70 Years, Chasing Dreams," will invite Chinese and foreign entertainers to discuss the role of art as a bond in a changing world and focus on exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations. It will run from October 18 to November 17.

The CSIAF is not only an international art festival but also the city's tourism magnet. Apart from guests who are invited to attend the festival, many visitors also flock to Shanghai for the CSIAF.