Booking Performance Tickets in Shanghai

We took my little boy to see the Nutcracker last night. Performed by the Russian National Ballet Theater at the Shanghai Oriental Art Center, that beautiful theater that looks like a five-leaf clover in Pudong. I was excited to take my son because my memories of seeing the Nutcracker in Chicago are still strong with visions of fantastic costumes, a huge Christmas tree on stage and the glorious dances to an orchestra in the pit.

Last night’s performance left us wanting. While my son enjoyed the ballet, his first, Mom and I were unimpressed with the recorded music, paltry set, uninspired costumes and the sheer lack of dancers. Clara had a fantastic performance but on occasion, her hero, the Nutcracker, looked as if he were about to drop her.

The important thing for you, however, is to know how we obtained the tickets. There’s a fantastic web site for all Shanghai performances from visiting ballet troupes to erhu performances, Beijing Opera and Disney on Ice. Check out http://www.culture.sh.cn/english/ to see what’s happening in Shanghai. You can book tickets online or call their hot line (from the US dial 011-86-21-6217-2426). Pick tickets up at their office at 272 Fengxian Road (just behind Plaza 66 on Nanjing Road West). Agents speak English.

Enjoy your holidays and next time you’re in Shanghai, check out what’s on and go see something interesting.