Promotional material for Ordinary World Photo: Courtesy of Douban

'Ordinary World' - stage play based on the famous Chinese novel

This play in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province is a same name adaptation of China's acclaimed novel Ordinary World. The novel was written by novelist Lu Yao, who won the top-notch Chinese Mao Dun Literature Prize for this literature piece.

The play is an assortment of the most eye-catching stories and moments in Lu's novel. More than 1.1 million ­Chinese ­characters in length, this original ­three-volume literature work is a true epic masterpiece. 

Both the original work and the drama tell the story of the urban and rural lives of Chinese people from the mid-1970s to the mid-1980s. These stories of ordinary people from different social backgrounds are a mirror that reflects the grit and tenacity of the Chinese people as well as their kindness.

The stage play is more than just a good story; the stage design is sure to astound as it makes use of a large 16-meter diameter stage that can rotate 360 degrees. This design aims to provide an amazing visual experience to audiences.

The play version of Ordinary World was first launched for audiences to enjoy in 2018. Since then, the play has sold around 19,600 tickets. 

It has been dubbed as one of the must-see stage plays for young Chinese audiences. 

Where: Guangzhou Opera House, Guangzhou 

When: December 3-4, 2022 

Price: From 180 yuan ($24.80)


'Songs of Nature' - musical

This show in Wuhan, Hubei Province aims to bring Baroque classical music to Chinese audiences. 

The musical Songs of Nature is led by soprano Chenyang Xiuyi and the Shanghai-based Qia Kong Ancient Orchestra Band. 

Chenyang is a coloratura ­soprano talent who has performed internationally in countries such as the US, the UK, Italy and Canada. Though she was trained to be a classical music singer, Chenyang also combines her passion for pop and electronic music into her classical music performances. 

The Qia Kong Ancient Orchestra Group is dedicated to using authentic ancient instruments to interpret European music that can be traced back to the Renaissance.  

The production team for Songs of Nature includes ­European groups such as the famed B'Rock Orchestra from Belgium.

Where: Qintai Music Hall, Wuhan  

When: November 24, 2022 

Price: From 50 yuan ($6.90)


'AndLife' - coffee festival 

This event in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province is sure not to disappoint if you are a big fan of the coffee culture! 

This coffee festival will have more than 100 shops and brands that specialize in coffee-related products. Many of these shops are well-known coffee houses in the industries such as the Metal Hands, NEWSROOM, OPUS CAFÉ and Roast Hertz. 

Visitors will not only be able to taste the specialties from different houses, but also have the opportunity to buy coffee beans, baked goods and other coffee culture-related lifestyle products such as indoor plants and fragrances.  

The year 2022 marks the fifth year since the event was launched in Nanjing. The event host has prepared a special gift set including a designed eco paper bag, festival-themed charms, four instant coffee bags, a gift mug and also a paper card containing coffee beans. 

Where: Xuanwu Lake Park, Nanjing  

When: November 11-13, 2022

Price: From 29 yuan ($4)