SHENZHEN Poly Theater has unveiled its exciting musical lineup for the second half of 2025.

‘The Legend of 1900’

Dates: Oct. 11-12

Adapted from Alessandro Baricco’s acclaimed novel, this musical stars Liu Lingfei and Xu Junshuo in a poignant exploration of identity, solitude, and belonging. The story follows an orphaned pianist named 1900, raised aboard the ocean liner SS Virginian. The novel was famously adapted into a 1998 film, which holds a 9.3/10 rating on Douban.com, beloved for its mystery and romance.

Produced by Ranspace, the musical features an international creative team, including French composer Dove Attia and Spanish stage designer Alfons Flores, alongside talented Chinese performers. Reimagining the classic tale, the production transforms traditional theater into an immersive, interactive experience tailored for Gen Z audiences.

‘Molière’

Dates: Oct. 16-19

This award-winning musical brings the legendary playwright’s life to the stage with a dynamic mix of rap, urban music, and modern dance — proving that 17th-century France pairs perfectly with a killer beat. Audiences can expect electrifying performances, striking visuals, and a bold reimagining of Molière’s journey from a 20-year-old dreamer to a theatrical icon, capturing his artistic struggles, triumphs, and tragic demise.

Written and composed by Dove Attia with a powerhouse French creative team, the production blends entertainment with a contemporary tribute to France’s cultural legacy. It swept seven awards at the 2024 French Musical Theater Awards.

‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’

Dates: Nov. 5-9

This Broadway extravaganza, bursting with candy, magic, and childhood wonder, will make its Shenzhen debut. Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved book, the musical brings Willy Wonka’s fantastical world — complete with chocolate waterfalls, glass elevators, and nut-sorting squirrels — to life on stage.

The story follows Charlie Bucket, a humble boy who wins a golden ticket to tour Wonka’s mysterious factory. Alongside four other children, he embarks on a whimsical adventure, learning that kindness and honesty are the true prizes.

Featuring an original score by Marc Shaiman (with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman) and a book by David Greig, the production includes nods to the 1971 film’s iconic songs like “The Candy Man,” “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” and “Pure Imagination.” Since its 2017 premiere, the show has dazzled audiences on Broadway, in London’s West End, and across North America before its long-awaited China debut in 2025.

‘Roméo et Juliette’

Dates: Nov. 21-30

An iconic piece in French musical theater, “Roméo et Juliette” has toured globally for over 20 years, enchanting more than 12 million viewers. Composed by Gérard Presgurvic in 2001, this fusion of pop music and classical drama redefined French musicals.

The timeless tale follows the star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet, heirs to feuding Veronese families, whose passionate romance defies hatred and fate. With 37 songs spanning diverse styles — including iconic hits like “Les Rois du Monde” (“Kings of the World”) and “Aimer” (“Love”) — the production transcends language barriers, reinventing Shakespeare’s tragedy as a universal anthem of youthful love.

Venue: Shenzhen Poly Theater, Nanshan District (深圳保利剧院)

Metro: Line 2, 11, or 13 to Houhai Station (后海站), Exit E(Li Dan)