A newly adapted, full length Peking Opera, "Chinese Imperial Concubine," will be staged at the Shanghai Grand Theatre tonight. Mei Baojiu, son of the distinguished Peking Opera master Mei Lanfang, will play the heroine of the emperor's favorite concubine Yang Yuhuan.

"This is the first time for a full-length Peking Opera to be staged in the Grand Theatre," said a representative from the festival's organizing committee. A total of 5 million yuan (US$602,410) is estimated to have been invested in this play, which has already sold out tickets for all four performances.

This year's event is on a larger scale than the previous two festivals. More than 60 shows and 11 exhibitions will be given from November 1 to December 1, and about half of the performances are given by troupes and artists from abroad.

The current festival is unique in that it involves participation by everyday people. A city leader has earlier urged "this should be the people's festival and artists will feel the passion for arts among common people."

During the festival, a stage will be put up in Century Square on the Pedestrian Street of Nanjing Lu, where artists from home and abroad will give performances along with average citizens.

Today, a large-scale outdoor party will be held at Dianshan Lake for thousands of people celebrating the festival.

In addition, the festival will include the premiere of a series of shows, including the "Chinese Imperial Concubine" and a ballet interpretation of the well-known "Butterfly Lovers," staged by the Shanghai Ballet Troupe.

The Moscow State Model Theatre, the highest level opera and ballet company in Russia, will perform "Swan Lake" during the festival.

Other performances include: Deutsche Opera from Germany presenting a modern version of "Romeo and Juliet"; Bejart Ballet Lausanne of Switzerland performing "Ballet for Life," with costumes designed by the past master of fashion, Gianni Versace; and the Vienna Operetta Company presenting "The Merry Widow." The Russian St Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra, Orchestra National du Capitole de Toulouse and the Cologne Chamber Orchestra will give separate concerts.

Several Peking Operas and other local operas will be staged, as well as pipa performances by Chinese folk musicians and percussion music concerts.

The Shanghai International Magic Competition, featuring 70 magicians from more than 10 countries and regions, and the first China Shanghai International Youth Piano Competition will also be presented.

(China Daily November 2, 2001)