Fluid use of space enriches live performances in Shanghai

In recent years, a fresh concept has been taking center stage in Shanghai's performing arts scene. Live acts are liberating themselves from traditional theaters and performance halls, venturing into a world of unconventional venues and more diverse forms.

"The city now boasts more than 200 live performing arts spaces. These venues come in various forms and are spread across the city. Together, they contribute to the dynamic character of Shanghai's urban landscape," said Wang Haigang, director of the board and chief producer at Shanghai Mahua FunAge Culture and Media.

"In traditional theater, people view the performance as a form of high art. Actors must captivate their audience. In these unconventional venues, performances extend beyond the traditional stage. For instance, we have brought live shows to shopping malls. Attending a play now becomes a multifaceted experience where you can enjoy dining and shopping all at the same time. These new spaces add great value to performance art, as well as cultural tourism and new forms of consumption," Wang added.

The Chinese adaptation of "Shear Madness" by Mahua FunAge has been performed many times in Shanghai and other cities. It's living proof of how unconventional venues are reshaping the audience experience at live shows.

The play is a murder mystery set in a hair salon, where members of the audience play a key role in shaping the narrative."In 'Shear Madness,' the audience plays the role of witnesses. Their input is crucial in helping to convict the murderer. Even though it is only a play, many of the audience members take their role very seriously. The process allows people get to express themselves, and the more engaged they become, the more immersive the experience is," said Wang.

The Asia Mansion building in Shanghai is home to over a dozen theaters. It has become one of the city's most popular destinations for young audiences to catch a live show. "Small venues offer a different theatrical experience. In traditional theaters, the audience sits below the stage, while the actors perform on it. Now we sit on the stage, closer to the actors, for a more immersive experience. The shows are shorter, and ticket prices are lower, making them more accessible to younger audiences," explained Ruan Hao, general manager of Shanghai Yahuahu Theater Development.

While these small theaters offer affordable and intimate live performances catering to young people, Ruan Hao sees these spaces as nurturing grounds for burgeoning talent: "Young creators struggle to secure projects in traditional theaters. However, now they have the opportunity to become entrepreneurs, starting from small theaters to build their portfolios."

"As for actors, they can establish their careers right after college or during their final years of study, allowing them to hone their skills. The promotion of alternative spaces for live shows is having a great effect on the performing arts ecosystem and industry," Ruan added.

Moving away from traditional venues to unconventional places like malls and office buildings, Shanghai is reshaping people's experience of visiting the theater. These venues are more than just performance spaces; they are expanding the scope of what is possible in theater, making it more accessible and vibrant for the city.