The Theatre of Absurdity: A Snarky Guide to the Circus…

The Theatre of Absurdity: A Snarky Guide to the Circus of Shanghai's Stage

TL;DR: Prepare for a wild ride as we dissect the surreal world of Theatre in Shanghai, a haven for the absurd, overly pretentious, and embarrassingly silly. If you're looking for a “real” theatre experience, cancel your subscription to reality.

The Art of Acting: Or, How to Fake It Till You Make It

• Master the Blank Stare: Deadpan expressions are the secret weapon of Shanghai theatre actors. Whether they're supposed to be expressing joy, sorrow, or a raging hormonal storm, the blank stare reigns supreme.
• Project Your Voice to the Balcony: Or at least try to. Vocal projection is optional, especially if you're playing a character with a severe case of resting vocal cord fatigue.
• Move Like a Robot: Graceful movements? Not in Shanghai theatre. Expect to witness actors who move with the fluidity of a rusty metal hinge.

The Costume Extravaganza: Or, Why Less Is More (of a Mess)

• Reject Conventional Costuming: If you're thinking of using realistic costumes, think again. Shanghai theatre embraces the avant-garde, where costumes resemble abstract paintings or failed experiments in fabric manipulation.
• Mismatched Outfits: Don't be surprised if characters show up in matching tops and clashing shoes. It's all part of the high-fashion chaos that Shanghai theatre thrives on.
• Over-the-Top Headwear: Hats, feathers, and giant flower arrangements aren't just accessories; they're a statement. The more ridiculous, the better.

The Playwright's Paradox: Or, When Nonsense Becomes Profound

• Embrace Ambiguity: Plots and characters in Shanghai theatre are often as clear as a foggy Shanghai morning. Expect to leave the theatre scratching your head, wondering what the play was even about.
• Throw in Some Symbolism: Why use plain language when you can sprinkle in incomprehensible metaphors? Shanghai playwrights are masters of symbolism, making their plays a cryptic puzzle for the audience to decipher.
• Question the Meaning of Life: Shanghai theatre tackles the big questions, like “Why am I here?” and “Does a tree falling in the forest make a sound if no one's around to hear it?” Just don't expect any answers.

The Audience Experience: Or, When Laughter Is Your Only Defense

• Vocalize Your Amusement: No need to hold back your laughter. In fact, it's encouraged. Shanghai theatre audiences embrace the absurdity, often erupting in gales of giggles or groans.
• Participate in the Performance: Don't be surprised if actors break character and start interacting with the audience. Shanghai theatre is all about audience participation, so be prepared for some unexpected surprises.
• Leave Your Expectations at the Door: If you're expecting a “normal” theatre experience, you've come to the wrong place. Shanghai theatre is a roller coaster of emotions, logic-defying plots, and over-the-top theatrics. Embrace the chaos and enjoy the ride.

The Beijing Opera Influence: Or, How Tradition Meets Modern Madness

• Elaborate Makeup: Think Peking Opera meets drag queens. Shanghai theatre incorporates traditional makeup techniques, resulting in characters that look like they've escaped from a Chinese opera mask factory.
• Acrobatic Shenanigans: The high-flying stunts of Peking Opera have found their way into Shanghai theatre. Prepare for actors who do backflips, twirl swords, and walk on stilts while reciting Shakespeare.
• Live Music and Singing: Shanghai theatre embraces traditional Chinese music and singing. Don't be surprised to hear actors burst into elaborate songs, often without any apparent reason.

If You Know, You Know…

Why did the CBS news producer go to the theatre in Shanghai?

Because they heard there was a play about a news anchor who couldn't tell the difference between a live broadcast and a staged rehearsal.

The Pithy Epilogue: Shanghai Theatre – A Unique Blend of Confusion and Delight

CBS news top stories in Shanghai, China may not be renowned for their theatre scene, but that's precisely what makes it so alluring. Shanghai theatre is a testament to the boundless imagination of its creators, where absurdity, delusion, and ridiculousness reign supreme. If you're ready to embark on a theatre experience that will leave you bewildered, bemused, and inexplicably entertained, Shanghai's stages await you with open arms and a knowing wink.