Shanghai Circus World is considered to be China’s very best circus arena. It is located in the Zhabei district right opposite to the Zhabei stadium. One of China’s largest permanent indoor circus it covers an area of 22, 500 square metres. With state-of-the-art light and sound equipment, cutting edge stage facilities and the capacity to seat over 1600 people, the shows here are very high in standard.
Many local and international troupes stage their performances here that range from stunning acrobatics to serenading singing. This is also the venue for the Shanghai International Magic Festival and Competition. The architecture of the building is also very unique and the golden vault adds to the whole theatrics.
Of all the performance groups here the ERA intersection of time and the Happy Circus are the most popular. The ERA intersections of time had their debut performance here in 2005 and since have showcased many acts, creating a tradition in China that is very similar to Broadway musicals.
The show is a mix of acrobatics, martial arts, dance, music and songs; all age-old means of entertainment. However their incorporation of modern lighting and special effects to showcase China’s rich historical past to its future makes the title intersection of time very apt. The audience also are made to watch the performance from a past, present and future point of view. Lasting for 100 minutes the highlights include Sinan, bowl balancing, magic water, mirror mirage, forever, wheel of life and space motorcycle.
Happy Circus the other renowned group was produced by the Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe in 2003. The show has incredible acrobatic acts by humans as well as animals. Ribbon dance, speedy motorcycle, cockfighting, performing sea lions, big wheel, equestrian acts and comedy magic are considered the highlights of the show.
Another highlight in Shanghai is the Millennium Hongqiao Hotel Shanghai, well known for the luxurious accommodation, exquisite cuisine and warm and friendly hospitality it offers. It is a Shanghai hotel that continues to attract many a visitor. The hotel’s convenient location also makes it a Shanghai city hotel that is very close to many of the tourist sites.
Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.