It’s no secret that Beijing is the historical and cultural heart of the vast nation of China, so it’s little wonder that there are so many live performances and shows happening all the time! Of course, unless you’re fluent in the native tongue, many of those performances may be rather confusing. Luckily, there are a number of worthwhile shows that are subtitled, or simply need little translation to be thoroughly enjoyed by the whole family.
1. Golden Mask Dynasty Show 金面王朝
Sporting a large ensemble of dancing and stunt-performing cast members, birds of paradise, real aquatic special effects, and costumes up the wazoo, the Golden Mask Dynasty show was a spectacular extravaganza. With subtitles displayed on the screens next to the stage, you’ll be able to get more than a rough understanding of the legendary tale. Truth be told, I hardly remember the story, but I remember my son and me being on the edge of our seats the whole time. One show reviewer wrote, “If I could give this show more than 5 stars I would, it is definitely a once-in-lifetime-must-watch-show, very captivating, once it starts, it just gets better and better till the end, you would not want to miss any minute of it!”
One show is available daily from 4-5pm at the OCT Theatre outside Happy Valley, Chaoyang District
2. Flying Acrobat Show at Chaoyang Theatre 杂技飞翔
You can’t possibly leave China without having watched a live acrobatic performance, so why not watch one of the best acrobatic shows in town? The Chaoyang Theatre Acrobatic Show features tumblers, gymnasts, contortionists, and acrobats performing jaw-dropping feats of skill and finesse. Aside from stunts such as the Flying Trident, Giant Wheel of Death, and Human Pyramid on a bicycle, there’s even the Motorbike Globe featuring a – wait for it – motorcycle in a globe! This is a thrill ride for the whole family you don’t want to miss.
One show is available daily from 4-5pm at the Chaoyang Theatre
3. Flyover Experience 飞越中国
Tired of the travel restrictions and afraid you won’t see the rest of China while you’re here? Then Flyover China is the ride for you. The ride utilizes state-of-the-art technology to give you the ultimate feeling of flight. You’ll be whisked away on an exhilarating journey across China as you hang suspended, feet dangling, before a 25-meter spherical screen. Special effects recreate the wind-in-your-hair sensation and even your olfactory senses will be tickled! The ride may only be 11 minutes long, but you’ll feel like you just went around the whole of China in that time. As a bonus, the theatre is right next to the Shijingshan Amusement Park, which is one of Beijing’s larger theme parks (before Universal Studios opened) that’s worth a day trip while you’re there!
Shows available from Tuesday to Sunday, 9am-4.30pm at Flyover the World Theatre, Shijingshan Amusement Park, Shijingshan District
4. Laoshe Tea House 老舍茶馆京味综艺演出
Looking for some authentic Chinese flavor? The Laoshe Tea House itself is a beautiful piece of living history and a testament to 1930s Chinese architecture and style. But there’s more – within these walls awaits a variety of traditional folk performances including Peking opera, hand shadow play, face changing, acrobatics, magic tricks, and even Chinese martial arts. Due to covid restrictions, the tea and pastries that are included in your ticket price cannot be consumed on the premises but can be brought home to enjoy after the show.
One show is available daily from 7.30-8.40pm during winter at Laoshe Teahouse, No.3, Qianmen West Street, Xicheng District.
To purchase tickets to these shows at a discount even compared to Dianping, contact May Zhang from Show Beijing.
Jingkids is happy to announce that we struck a deal with May to give away a pair of tickets to one of these four fantastic shows of your choice*! All you have to do is share this article on your moments with a comment about which show you want to watch and we’ll pick a lucky winner by Friday, Jan 28.
*subject to availability
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Images: Show Beijing
