Mark your calendar for beloved musicals, plays

Bay Opera of Shenzhen

‘The Phantom of the Opera’(in English)

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical, “The Phantom of the Opera,” one of the most popular theatrical shows in history, will launch its new international tour in China this summer. The tour begins in Shenzhen, with performances from July 2 through Aug. 4.

"The Phantom of the Opera"

This timeless musical tells the story of Christine Daaé, a beautiful young singer at the Paris Opéra, who is haunted and mentored by a mysterious figure known as the “Phantom,” leading to a dangerous obsession.

Jonathan Roxmouth will star in the title role. The musical, which premiered in the U.K. in 1986, has a rich history of international tours, including appearances in Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou between 2004 and 2015.

Dates: July 2-Aug. 4 (Booking for July 2-14 shows now open)

‘Rouge’ (in Chinese)

Based on Lillian Lee’s novel, the Chinese musical “Rouge” stars pop singer Jam Hsiao in a heartrending tale of romance. Set in the 1930s in Hong Kong, it chronicles the tragic love of a courtesan and a wealthy man culminating in a suicide pact. The story resumes 50 years later with her spirit’s quest to find him.

The novel was also adapted into a critically acclaimed film directed by Stanley Kwan in 1988, featuring stellar performances by Leslie Cheung and Anita Mui.

Time: 8 p.m., June 6-9 (June 8-9 also at 2:30 p.m.)

Booking: WeChat account “深圳滨海艺术中心”

Metro: Line 5 to Baohua Station (宝华站), Exit A

Shenzhen Poly Theater

‘Don Juan’ (in French)

French musical “Don Juan,” based on the Spanish libertine, will take the stage in April. Composer Felix Gray and director Gilles Maheu brought this adaptation to life, drawing from Mozart’s opera “Don Giovanni” and Tirso de Molina’s work. This modern portrayal provides a more humanized view of Don Juan, embellished by passionate music and Spanish-themed dances like flamenco, enhanced by pulsating rhythms and vibrant guitar.

“Don Juan”

Time: 7:30 p.m., April 19-21 (April 20-21 also at 2 p.m.)

‘Les Misérables’ (in Chinese)

A Chinese theater production of Victor Hugo’s “Les Misérables” stars renowned Chinese film actor Liu Ye as Jean Valjean. Directed by Jean Bellorini, it premiered in Beijing on Jan. 26 and is set for a French showing in November. The play is part of the program of celebrations marking the 60th anniversary for the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and France. It is also part of a theater project of the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism 2024.

Time: 7:30 p.m., May 18-19

‘Mozart, L’opéra Rock’(in French)

The biographical French musical “Mozart, L’opéra Rock” incorporates both pop and rock elements and classical compositions to portray the life of the composer Mozart, highlighting his personal and artistic struggles.

"Mozart, L’opéra Rock"

Time: 7:30 p.m., Aug. 29-Sept. 1 (Aug. 31-Sept. 1 also at 2 p.m.)

Booking: WeChat account “SZpolytheatre”

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

Nanshan Culture and Sports Center

‘Mamma Mia!’ (in English)

The smash-hit jukebox musical “Mamma Mia!” unfolds as a daughter’s wedding looms and her search for her father’s identity reunites her mother with three past suitors. Featuring classic ABBA hits and vibrant choreography by Anthony Van Laas, this promises a feel-good show.

“Mamma Mia!”

Dates: July 12-21 (Booking for July 12-14 shows now open)

Booking: WeChat account “juchengwangluo”

Metro: Line 1 or 12 to Taoyuan Station (桃园站), Exit B

Pingshan Theater

‘And Then There Were None’ (in English)

Lucy Bailey directs this English thriller based on Agatha Christie’s best-selling crime novel. Strangers invited to an isolated mansion find themselves in a deadly game of survival. This gripping play promises suspense until the final curtain.

"And Then There Were None"

Dates: May 9-12 (Specific time and booking details to be announced)

‘Dinosaur World Live’(in English)

This interactive British show is perfect for a family adventure. Audiences will meet awe-inspiring dinosaurs, including the fierce T-Rex, Triceratops, and more, offering an entertaining and educational journey into the world of these ancient creatures.

"Dinosaur World Live"

Time: 8 p.m., April 12-13; 10 a.m., 3 p.m., April 13-14

Booking: WeChat account “PingShanTheatre”

Metro: Line 14 to Pingshan Square Station (坪山广场站), Exit D1