‘Tian Gong Kai Wu’

The drama by renowned Chinese director Lu Chuan recounts the life of ancient Chinese scientist Song Yingxing and his compilation of various agricultural and handicraft skills in the 17th-century Chinese encyclopedia “Tian Gong Kai Wu.” It portrays the wisdom and industriousness of ancient Chinese.

“The dance drama transcends language barriers, allowing people of different ages and nationalities, especially the younger generation, to gain insights into China’s scientific and technological development,” said director Lu.

Time: 8 p.m., March 7-9

Venue: Shenzhen Poly Theater, Nanshan District

Metro: Line 2, 11 or 13 to Houhai Station, Exit E

‘Mulan’

Unlike the traditional legend of Hua Mulan, which celebrates her warrior spirit, this production spotlights her strength in her pursuit of self-identity, love and peace through compelling dance numbers and exquisite music.

The production, an ingenious blend of dance, martial arts and theater elements together with exquisite modern stage technology, has won the Lotus Award, China’s highest award for dance.

Time: 8 p.m., March 22; 3 p.m., March 23

Venue: Guangming Culture and Art Center, Guangming District

Metro: Line 6 to Fenghuangcheng Station, Exit B

Dance of fire

A group of 16 exceptionally talented dancers and musicians from the Argentine dance troupe MALEVO will deliver a stunning performance, accompanied by high-energy music and wild rhythms that get the entire audience moving.

These performances have captivated audiences worldwide, with each show leaving spectators in awe and rave reviews.

Time: 3 p.m., 8 p.m., March 29

Venue: Pingshan Theater, Pingshan District

Metro: Line 14 to Pingshan Square Station, Exit D1

Guan Gong exhibition

Spanning 1,500 square meters, the exhibition features over 60 works, including ancient artifacts, contemporary art, and intangible cultural heritage, offering an in-depth exploration of Guan Gong’s legacy as a figure of loyalty, righteousness, and bravery in Chinese history.

Guan Gong, also known as Guan Yu, was a military general during the Three Kingdoms period (220-280). Revered for his virtues, he became not only a symbol of moral integrity but also a godly figure, honored as the God of War and the God of Wealth.

Dates: Until April 8

Venue: Shenzhen Museum of Contemporary Art and Urban Planning, Futian District

Metro: Line 3 or 4 to Children’s Palace Station, Exit A2

Portrait paintings

A collection of ancient Chinese portrait paintings from the National Museum of China is being exhibited at Shenzhen Museum’s History and Folk Culture Division.

The exhibition features 131 portrait paintings created during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties, featuring figures from imperial families, notable officials, and literati. These paintings not only carry the stories of those historical figures but also convey information about politics, etiquette, art, folk customs, and clothing.

Dates: Until March 30

Venue: Shenzhen Museum’s History and Folk Culture Division, Futian District

Metro: Line 2 or 4 to Civic Center Station, Exit B

‘Propjects’

“Propjects: Scheltons & Abbenes’ Photography” marks the debut solo exhibition of the Dutch photography duo Scheltons & Abbenes in China and represents their very first major retrospective in their creative career, showcasing over 80 works.

This exhibition includes all of the duo’s classic pieces to date. Scheltons & Abbenes focus on objects within the frame, but their thoughts and expressions transcend the boundaries of the frame. In their photographic works, they leave various traces and evidence, inviting visitors to enter their inner world and attempt to unravel the visual puzzles.

Dates: Through April 13

Venue: Shenzhen Art Museum (new division), Longhua District

Metro: Line 4 or 6 to Hongshan Station, Exit A1

French illustrator’s exhibition

“Bonjour La Ligne (Dear Line),” a solo exhibition by French illustrator Serge Bloch, is running at Guangming Culture and Art Center.

Covering approximately 1,000 square meters, the exhibition is divided into 15 zones, showcasing Bloch’s illustrations, installations, and more.

Dates: Until April 6

Venue: Guangming Culture and Art Center Art Museum, Guangming District

Metro: Line 6 to Fenghuang Town Station, Exit B(Tang Li)