Call for Applications for Participating Performance Productions (Programs) and Commissioned Projects of the 25th China Shanghai International Arts Festival

To all applicant organizations,

Hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China and organized by the Shanghai Municipal People’s Government, the 25th China Shanghai International Arts Festival is scheduled to be held from October to November 2026.

Upholding its guiding principle of “A Festival of Arts, a Gala for All”, the 25th CSIAF will continue to pursue the goal of building a cultural brand with global influence. Adhering to a content orientation that emphasizes both “world-class excellence and exploratory innovation,” and following the principle of “overall scale control with a focus on quality,” the Festival will present outstanding artistic works from around the world. To ensure the smooth organization of applications for participating productions (programs) and commissioned projects, relevant matters are hereby announced as follows:

I. Application Period

From now until 31 March 2026

II. Eligible Applicants

Performing arts troupes, performing arts organizations, and performance venues

III. Requirements for Participating Performance Productions (Programs)

Productions demonstrating a strong sense of the times and distinctive Chinese characteristics, contribute to strengthening the “Shanghai Culture” brand, and fully embody Red Culture, Shanghai-style Culture, and Jiangnan Culture.

Newly created and adapted original productions jointly developed by renowned playwrights, directors, and performers; works involving distinguished artists and leading companies from China and abroad, presented as premieres or first showings; and re-produced versions of Chinese and international classical works are also eligible to apply.

Projects from foreign countries, as well as those from Hong Kong, China；Macau, China; and Taiwan, China, and international co-productions should meet international standards, demonstrate a fusion of classical and contemporary elements, feature distinctive regional characteristics and a strong spirit of exploration and innovation, and showcase mutual learning and exchange among Chinese and foreign civilizations.

Outstanding domestic productions that represent the national artistic standard, possess distinctive ethnic and cultural characteristics, and reflect the spirit and outlook of contemporary China in the new era (such as works that have won major awards or are newly created original music, dance, and theatre productions).

Works that present Chinese culture through international expression and demonstrate the achievements of the Belt and Road Initiative; disseminate contemporary Chinese values; reflect the shared values of humanity; possess distinctive national cultural and artistic characteristics; and contribute to promoting Chinese culture globally and presenting China’s image to the world.

IV. Requirements for Commissioned Projects

Projects that emphasize the inheritance and innovative development of China’s fine traditional culture and international collaboration, actively applying new technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and intelligent stage systems in performances, focusing on the integration of technology and art to provide audiences with innovative viewing experiences.

Works dedicated to the innovative transformation and creative development of China’s fine traditional culture, promoting the national spirit, demonstrating high ideological, cultural, and artistic standards, and contributing to the building of the spiritual homeland of the Chinese nation.

Projects that reflect Shanghai’s urban spirit and contemporary character; portray notable Shanghai figures, masters, and classic works from different historical periods; and embody the city’s historical continuity and emotional warmth.

Artistic interpretations of the history, present realities, and future prospects of the Belt and Road Initiative, conveying the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind; showcasing Chinese aesthetics and enhancing the international influence and competitiveness of Chinese culture.

Original works with global dissemination potential, developed through collaboration with leading international and domestic arts institutions and organizations across the stages of research and development, production, and dissemination, achieving the goal of creation in Shanghai and dissemination worldwide.

V. Application Materials

Promotional materials such as written profiles (in both Chinese and English) of the performing group, production, principal creative team members, and main performers, as well as award history

Stage stills (colored images), complete audiovisual recordings of the production, CDs/DVDs, USB drives, and related materials.

Performance summaries and feedback from audiences, experts, and the media.

Detailed information on the size and composition of the performing team, stage and technical requirements, and other relevant conditions.

VI. Notes on Application Submission

Performance must be scheduled during the 25th China Shanghai International Arts Festival, from October to November 2026.

Applications must specify the performing group, organizing institution, project category and content, time length of the performance, proposed performance dates, and intended venue.

During the Festival, performance venues will be coordinated by the Office of the Organizing Committee of the China Shanghai International Arts Festival. Applicants should not sign formal venue rental agreements with proposed venues in advance.

Applications must be submitted using the Application Form for Participating Productions (Programs) of the 25th China Shanghai International Arts Festival, duly stamped with the official seal.

The application deadline is 31 March 2026.

VII. Submission Address

Performance and Exhibition Department

Centre for China Shanghai International Arts Festival

Address: No. 101 Chengdu Road (South), Huangpu District, Shanghai

Postcode: 200020

Contacts: Du Juan, Ren Zhiwei

Tel: +86 21 5265 4015 (Domestic Productions)

+86 21 5353 0300 (Overseas Productions)

Fax: +86 21 5265 4026

Email: pedep@artsbird.com

This notice is hereby issued.