Shanghai Grand Theatre

上海大剧院

The Shanghai Grand Theatre occupies 11,528 square meters, with a total floor area of 70,000 square meters and a total height of 40 meters. The building comprises 2 underground floors, 6 above-ground floors, and 2 top floors, for a total of 10 floors. The theatre houses three theaters: an 1,800-seat Grand Theatre for ballet, opera, and symphony performances; a 550-seat Medium Theatre suitable for local opera and chamber music performances; and a 250-seat Small Theatre for drama and cabaret performances. Additionally, the Grand Theatre's supporting facilities include a rooftop banquet hall on the eighth floor, a cultural exhibition hall and Maxim's Café on the ground floor, and an underground garage with parking for over 170 cars. The Shanghai Grand Theatre, a crystal palace woven from musical notes, is an art palace that integrates new technologies, techniques, and materials.

Introduction

  • Attraction Location: 300 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu District, Shanghai, China (中国上海市黄浦区人民大道300号)

  • History: Opened in 1998, Shanghai Grand Theatre was built to serve as a modern performing arts center in Shanghai, hosting opera, ballet, symphony concerts, and drama performances. It has since become one of Shanghai’s cultural landmarks.

  • Architecture: Designed by French architect Jean-Marie Charpentier, the theatre features a modern glass and steel facade, a grand foyer, and multiple performance halls including a large main auditorium, a smaller recital hall, and an experimental theatre space. Its design integrates transparency, natural light, and elegant interior spaces.

  • Cultural Value: The theatre is a hub for classical music, contemporary performances, and international cultural exchange. It plays an important role in promoting performing arts education and appreciation in Shanghai and China.

  • Other Information: The theatre hosts international festivals, art exhibitions, educational programs, and seasonal performances such as Shanghai Ballet and Shanghai Symphony Orchestra concerts.

Visiting Information

  • Opening Hours: 09:00–20:00; performance hours depend on schedule

  • Ticket Price:
    Opera/Ballet/Concert: 80–1200 CNY depending on seating
    Educational programs: 50–200 CNY
    Guided tours: 100 CNY

  • Best Photo Spots:
    Grand foyer with glass ceiling (大剧院中庭玻璃穹顶)
    Exterior at night with illuminated facade (夜间外立面灯光)
    Main auditorium before a performance (主剧场表演前)

  • Time Reference: 1–2 hours for a tour; 2–3 hours for a performance.

Where to Sleep (Nearby Hotels & Stays)

  • Luxury:
    Fairmont Peace Hotel (上海和平饭店)
    The Ritz-Carlton Shanghai, Pudong (上海浦东丽思卡尔顿酒店)
  • Mid-range:
    Radisson Blu Hotel Shanghai New World (上海新世界丽笙大酒店)
    Hotel Indigo Shanghai on the Bund (上海外滩英迪格酒店)
  • Budget & Boutique:
    Jinjiang Inn Shanghai People’s Square (锦江之星上海人民广场店)
    Boutique guesthouses around People’s Square (人民广场周边精品民宿)

What & Where to Eat

  • Must-Try Dishes:
    Xiaolongbao (小笼包)
    Shanghai hairy crab (上海大闸蟹, seasonal)
    Steamed pork dumplings (蒸猪肉饺子)
  • Famous Spots:
    Nanxiang Steamed Bun Restaurant (南翔馒头店)
    Din Tai Fung Shanghai (鼎泰丰上海)
    Local Shanghainese restaurants around People’s Square (人民广场周边本地餐厅)

What Souvenirs to Buy

  • Performance programs and posters (演出节目单和海报)
    Musical-themed stationery and gifts (音乐主题文具和礼品)
    Small instruments or handcrafted items from performances (表演相关小型乐器或手工艺品)

Transportation

  • Metro: Line 1, 2, or 8 to People’s Square Station (人民广场站), Exit 1 or 4, then a short walk
  • Bus: Multiple buses stop near People’s Square (人民广场公交站)
  • Taxi/Rideshare: Direct drop-off at Shanghai Grand Theatre entrance
  • Driving: Parking available in adjacent underground lots; follow signage from Renmin Avenue (人民大道)

Nearby Attractions

  • People’s Square (人民广场) – 0.3 km, walkable
  • Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆) – 0.5 km, walkable
  • Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街) – 1 km, walkable or taxi
  • Urban Planning Exhibition Center (上海城市规划展示馆) – 0.7 km, walkable

Tips for Visitors

  • Check the performance schedule in advance; tickets can sell out quickly for popular shows.
  • Arrive 30–60 minutes before performances to enjoy the grand foyer and take photos.
  • Wear smart casual attire for performances; some events may have dress codes.
  • Guided tours are available for architecture and backstage insights.
  • Weekdays are less crowded than weekends for visiting the theatre or attending shows.
  • Use the metro for easiest access; People’s Square area has heavy traffic.

Recommended Itineraries

  • Half-Day Cultural Tour:
    Shanghai Grand Theatre (上海大剧院) → Walk to Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆) → People’s Square (人民广场) → Nanjing Road Pedestrian Street (南京路步行街)
  • Full-Day Shanghai Downtown Experience:
    D1 Morning: Shanghai Grand Theatre (上海大剧院) → Walk to Urban Planning Exhibition Center (上海城市规划展示馆)
    D1 Afternoon: People’s Square (人民广场) → Nanjing Road (南京路步行街) → Lunch/Dinner at nearby Shanghainese restaurant
  • Two-Day Cultural Exploration:
    D1: Shanghai Grand Theatre (上海大剧院) → Shanghai Museum (上海博物馆) → People’s Square (人民广场), Overnight at nearby hotel
    D2: Bund (外滩) → Yu Garden (豫园) → City God Temple Market (城隍庙市场), taxi or metro to each location

User Reviews

By zhm_jinan |

Just west of the government building, I haven't been inside yet

By Little Pig Man |

Next to the Shanghai Municipal People's Government in People's Square, this is an international-level theater.

By Numb Pigeon |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is located in the bustling area of People's Square, bordered by Renmin Avenue to the south and the Municipal Administration Building to the east. Its unique architectural style blends Eastern and Western influences. Its white, curved vaults and luminous glass curtain walls create a vibrant, crystalline palace, a landmark of Shanghai. I visited in January and saw Riverdance, an Irish national treasure. This upgraded version, in addition to the familiar tap dance, also incorporates flamenco, Irish folk dance, pointe-style ballet, and vocal and instrumental music.

By Xu Xiake |

In order to watch Zheng Yunlong's musical, I flew all the way from Chengdu to Shanghai and came to this place... It's great!

By Bailenita |

It is a ten-minute walk from People's Square subway station. The theater has relatively new equipment.

By Maomao |

Located at No. 300 Renmin Avenue, Huangpu District, Shanghai, it is adjacent to the Shanghai Museum in the south, Huangpi North Road in the west, People's Park and Shanghai History Museum in the north, and Shanghai Municipal People's Government at the north end of the central axis of People's Square in the east.

By Big Bad Wolf |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre covers an area of approximately 21,000 square meters, with a total construction area of 70,000 square meters, a total height of 40 meters, and a total of 10 floors. It is a cultural landmark in Shanghai and has staged various large-scale performances and variety shows such as operas, musicals, ballets, symphonies, chamber music, dramas, and traditional Chinese operas.

By Mars User |

Watched a play and a musical, the location is excellent and the transportation is very convenient

By hyacinth! |

The Grand Theatre is located near Shanghai People's Square, next to the Municipal Government.

By Jenny |

One of Shanghai's iconic landmarks, the Grand Theatre is always captivating. Its white, curved dome and transparent glass curtain walls create a crystalline palace towering over Renmin Avenue. Opened in 1998, it's located in the heart of the city, near the city government and the Municipal Museum.

By make a sightseeing tour |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is located northwest of People's Square (No. 286 Huangpi North Road), next to the Municipal Government. It has three theaters: large (1,800 seats), medium (550 seats), and small (250 seats). Opened in 1998, it has performed more than 10,000 shows and attracted more than 12 million spectators. It has staged operas, musicals, ballets, symphonies, dramas, Chinese operas, chamber music, etc., and has become a world-class art display platform.

By Good Match |

The architectural style is quite advanced, and the roof looks like a runway for gliding takeoff. Yes, it is next to the Shanghai Municipal Government.

By Rui Rui Rui sharp |

I didn't catch the show directly when I went during the day, but there are usually more performances at night.

By You have to be like the wind |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is one of Shanghai's iconic landmarks. Whenever I pass by, I'm captivated by its beauty. Its white, curved dome and transparent glass curtain walls make it tower like a crystal palace on Renmin Avenue. The first time I saw it, I was eager to visit. However, it's usually closed, only open for conferences, events, or to watch a play. This Spring Festival, I finally got my wish. While watching the legendary Yue Opera production of "Dream of the Red Chamber," I checked my ticket and entered the lobby to experience its mystical charm. The spacious and brightly lit audience lounge area is breathtakingly majestic. A large crystal chandelier hangs overhead, the floor is clad in Greek crystal white marble, and massive white marble columns flank it. Comfortable, high-end sofas and chairs are lined up, along with exquisite artwork and music books for sale. Entering the lobby, you're instantly immersed in a world of elegant and sacred music.

Starting in 2016, the legendary production of "Dream of the Red Chamber" will be performed annually at the Shanghai Grand Theatre during the Lunar New Year holiday. This is the only Chinese opera production currently resident at a premier theater. Starring renowned Yue Opera artists Qian Huili and Wang Zhiping, this production is highly recommended for theater enthusiasts. Visit this upscale cultural venue.

Transportation

Bus: 109, 935, 49, 23, 123, 145, 112

Metro: Line 2, Line 8, Line 1, People's Square Station, Exit 2, about an 8-minute walk

By Amber Lord |

Watched Riverdance here...

By Wandering Photographer |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is located in People's Square in the city center. It is a landmark building in Shanghai. Its completion has made People's Square a veritable political and cultural center of Shanghai.

By Yimeng fellow |

If you don't visit the Shanghai Grand Theatre while you're in Shanghai, you'll be missing out. Do you have the urge to go?

By Yang Chenfu |

I recently passed by here and the tourist buses all stopped here. If you have time, you can really come and watch the play.

By doudoulh |

The main purpose of theaters is to watch performances. The Shanghai Grand Theater is located in the heart of People's Square. Many major theater troupes choose to perform here. They also perform popular operas every July 1st.

By Mirage in the Universe |

Check out the landmarks… I’ve been here. I’ve taken photos. I’ve experienced it.

By His Royal Highness Wang Jiuye |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre, located in People's Square, is a landmark in Shanghai's cultural and arts center. I'm always captivated by its beauty whenever I pass by. Many important concerts and classic plays are performed here. It's a great place to soak up the culture.

By Sharpay |

A play is made up of two parts: the actors, who interpret, perform, and embody the story; and the audience, who express their emotions and participate in the atmosphere. No action, no performance is repeated; each performance is a unique "improvisation." [1984]

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is truly magnificent, especially at night. The crystal and glass facade is truly dazzling. It also hosts a wide variety of performances. The main attraction is its convenient transportation, with Line 1 taking you directly to People's Square.

By Stop and enjoy the scenery |

This cultural landmark in Shanghai sells very affordable charity tickets starting at 9am every day.

By An An |

It's right next to the city hall. The architecture is quite unique, even though it looks Western. Listening to a concert or watching a play there is definitely an elegant experience.

By |

High, high, high, high, high, high, high

By Big hands holding small hands |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre, a striking and beautiful venue located on Renmin Avenue, has successfully staged a wide variety of large-scale performances and evening entertainment, including operas, musicals, ballets, symphonies, chamber music, dramas, and traditional Chinese operas. It is increasingly becoming a vital window for cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world, and a bridge for artistic communication.

By Mountains and rivers |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre opened on August 27, 1998. It is located in People's Square in the city center, adjacent to the Shanghai Municipal People's Government and the Shanghai Museum. It covers an area of approximately 2.1 hectares and has a unique architectural style and beautiful shape.

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is a landmark building in Shanghai. Its completion has made People's Square the city's true political and cultural center. The Grand Theatre has successfully staged a wide range of large-scale performances and variety shows, including operas, musicals, ballets, symphonies, chamber music, dramas, and traditional Chinese operas. It is increasingly becoming a vital window for cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world and a bridge for artistic communication in Shanghai.

By Ah Bin Luffy |

Very close to People's Square, get off at People's Square subway station, I forgot the exit, it's a big theater, very nice

By liaoliao501 |

There are many concerts in the center of People's Square, but the tickets are expensive.

By This is the origin |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is a landmark building in Shanghai and a landmark building around People's Square.

By Hoo-miyu |

The appearance is very impressive, the environment is very good, near the People's Square, very convenient

By Seagull East |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre, opened on August 27, 1998, is located at 286 Huangpi North Road, in People's Square in the city center, adjacent to the Shanghai Municipal People's Government and the Shanghai Museum. It occupies approximately 2.1 hectares and boasts a unique architectural style and elegant design. The building comprises two underground floors, six above-ground floors, and two top floors, for a total of 10 floors. It houses three theaters: an 1,800-seat Grand Theatre for ballet, opera, and symphony performances; a 550-seat Medium Theatre for local opera and chamber music; and a 250-seat Small Theatre for drama and cabaret performances. Additionally, auxiliary facilities include a rooftop banquet hall on the eighth floor, a cultural exhibition hall and Maxim's Café on the ground floor, and an underground garage with parking for over 170 cars. This crystal palace, woven from musical notes, is an art palace that integrates new technologies, techniques, and materials. The Shanghai Grand Theatre is a landmark building in Shanghai, and its completion has made People's Square a veritable political and cultural center of the city. The Shanghai Grand Theatre has successfully staged a wide range of large-scale performances and variety shows, including operas, musicals, ballets, symphonies, chamber music, dramas, and traditional Chinese operas. It is increasingly becoming a vital window for cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world and a bridge for artistic communication. Designed by a renowned French architect, he employed the world's most advanced materials and lighting, and presented a striking design to the people of Shanghai with a fresh vision. The Grand Theatre boasts a simple, flowing geometric structure, with a crown-like, curved white roof that curves toward the sky. Atop it, a classical outdoor theater and hanging gardens, the theatre resembles a treasure trove, symbolizing Shanghai's broad embrace of global culture and art.

By Dry eyes |

The place for performances, there is also a wedding banquet on the top floor, the location is also very convenient

By wangmafeng |

I have watched several performances, including Swan Lake, The Lion King, Phantom of the Opera, etc., and I think they are very good.

By . |

The first time I watched a play was here. It was so big.

By God knows |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre opened on August 27, 1998. It is located in People's Square in the city center, adjacent to the Shanghai Municipal People's Government and the Shanghai Museum. It covers an area of approximately 2.1 hectares and has a unique architectural style and beautiful shape.

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is a landmark building in Shanghai. Its completion has made People's Square the city's true political and cultural center. The Grand Theatre has successfully staged a wide range of large-scale performances and variety shows, including operas, musicals, ballets, symphonies, chamber music, dramas, and traditional Chinese operas. It is increasingly becoming a vital window for cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world and a bridge for artistic communication in Shanghai.

By suu |

This is where I went to the theater for the first time in my life.

By Tangled Dora |

I watched a play there, it was pretty good.

By frankmok |

Located in the city center, it is the first choice for major orchestras to perform. The excellent sound effects and elegant environment give you a perfect audio-visual enjoyment.

By China-TravelNote users |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre opened on August 27, 1998. It is located in People's Square in the city center, adjacent to the Shanghai Municipal People's Government and the Shanghai Museum. It covers an area of approximately 2.1 hectares and has a unique architectural style and beautiful shape.

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is a landmark building in Shanghai. Its completion has made People's Square the city's true political and cultural center. The Grand Theatre has successfully staged a wide range of large-scale performances and variety shows, including operas, musicals, ballets, symphonies, chamber music, dramas, and traditional Chinese operas. It is increasingly becoming a vital window for cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world and a bridge for artistic communication in Shanghai.

By N |

You can go for a walk, it's interesting and fun

By Concrete Youth |

One of the landmarks of Huangpu District, tourists visiting People's Square can go there to play. I think China-TravelNote

By xuhong881 |

Located in People's Square, it is a great place to listen to music. The entrance fee is 50 yuan.

By Cream-Cat |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is located in the heart of Shanghai, People's Square. The Grand Theatre itself is a landmark building in Shanghai. The first floor is the Grand Theatre, the third floor is the Buick Medium Theatre, and the fifth floor is the Small Theatre. Each theatre presents different plays, and large-scale dramas, musicals, and ballets are generally performed in the Grand Theatre. Basically, the quality of the plays performed in the Grand Theatre is very guaranteed. Different dramas are performed every year. In recent years, the Grand Theatre has continuously launched charity tickets, allowing more people who love culture and art to experience the charm of art in person. There is also a Starry Sky Banquet Hall on the fifth floor, where you can enjoy the view of People's Square while dining.

By micheil |

I've been there, it's very grand and beautiful, worth recommending, I will come again next time

By Mu Zhinan |

People's Square is also said to be a landmark building with convenient transportation.

By Citron |

It is also one of the landmark buildings in Shanghai. I have watched the performance

By A bottle of oil |

The facilities are good, the 3D effect is great, and watching the tomb-raiding drama is very enjoyable. However, the service attitude of the staff is relatively poor. It doesn't feel like I am here to consume. It feels like I am here to ask a public official to do something for me.

By Adventurous Fengzi |

It is right next to the Shanghai Municipal People's Government. The staff there are very enthusiastic and the service is very warm. The facilities of the theater are also very good.

By Fish Flower |

Located north of People's Square and west of the City Hall, the building is very beautiful and the interior is magnificent. High-level performances are often held here.

By Mars User |

Although Shanghai is experiencing a surge in the number of theaters built today, the grandeur of the Shanghai Grand Theatre, completed in the 1990s, remains unsurpassed. Its prime location, across from People's Square and facing the Shanghai Museum, makes it a veritable landmark. While subsequent theaters may have had better facilities, none have captured the same attention.

By Xiao Shi |

You can see all kinds of performances here. I'm lucky today. Haha

By China-TravelNote users |

It is located near People's Square, but I have never been inside. There are performances there from time to time. If you want to see it, you can book tickets in advance on websites such as Damai.com.

By Mojie |

Drama, I watched a drama here for the first time, first time

By Lollipop |

It is a very spectacular theater where all important performances are held.

By Zhang Dating |

I passed by but didn't go in. It should be good and famous. I hope to go and see it next time I go.

By Yu Xinfly |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is a truly impressive and prestigious theater. Located in the heart of Shanghai, right on People's Square, it's easily noticeable from afar thanks to its striking, elegant architecture. Access is also convenient: just take the subway to Shanghai Square Station. Unfortunately, despite frequently checking out its performance posters, I've never had the chance to see a favorite play.

By Emily |

It's right next to the city government. I went to watch the play "That Night, Women Talked Crosstalk". It was pretty good, but the parking lot was not very big.

By fannyymf |

It’s a very grand theater with various performances all year round!

By pinger |

There are many great performances here, and every one of them is a joy to watch!

By Peko sauce peach |

I watched a play with my friends and also watched The Sound of Music. It was great. The Shanghai Grand Theatre is also a landmark.

Category tags: Musical

By Apprentice Pirate Jackie |

I've been to the big theater and the small theater, both are very good

By Qingcaoxuanxuan |

The Shanghai Grand Theatre is located in the heart of Renguang City. There are many performances, and it is worth choosing a few to enjoy.

By Victory |

I went to see a friend's solo concert. The acoustics were good, but the interior wasn't as magnificent as I'd imagined.

By Western Regions Trap God |

Everyone who comes here will enjoy it, it is worth recommending

By Cape of Good Hope |

Located in People's Square in the heart of Shanghai, the Shanghai Grand Theatre is a major cultural facility spanning a century. After 15 years of operation, it underwent a major renovation. Before the renovations began, the theatre offered free admission to the public for ten days, and I was fortunate enough to be granted one. During this free tour, visitors were able to fully explore the Grand Theatre's stage, VIP area, sixth-floor observation gallery, and other rarely visited "secret areas." When the audience stood center stage, their excitement was palpable, and they took photos, capturing this wonderful moment.

By Yuwen |

The location is good and the building is very beautiful. It is best seen at night when the lights are bright. I have been there twice to watch a play in a small hall.

By A Lin |

It is magnificent and splendid. Some performances will be held inside.

By Jackie Chen |

At People's Square, walk from the Urban Planning Center to the end of the road and you will find the Grand Theatre.

By DEUTSCHE |

It is located in the center of People's Square, next to the Municipal Government Building.

The building has two underground floors, six above-ground floors, and two top floors, for a total of ten floors. The theater houses three venues: an 1,800-seat Grand Theater for ballet, opera, and symphony performances; a 550-seat Medium Theater suitable for local opera and chamber music; and a 250-seat Small Theater for drama and cabaret performances. Additionally, auxiliary facilities include a rooftop banquet hall on the eighth floor, a cultural exhibition hall and Maxim's Café on the ground floor, and an underground garage with parking for over 170 cars. The Shanghai Grand Theater, a crystal palace woven from musical notes, is an art palace that integrates new technologies, new craftsmanship, and new materials.



The night sky is especially beautiful!

By Red Robe Watch |

The overall facilities of the Grand Theater are great and the environment is good

By sll |

China's first grand theater, in line with international standards, the work of big-name designers, is amazing!

By ╰'Description, future |

It's near People's Square, next to the Shanghai Art Museum and adjacent to the Shanghai Museum. Get off at People's Square subway station and exit at Exit 10. It's very convenient!

By Roxanne |

I watched a play in the small theater inside. It was far away and I didn’t think the effect was very good. I haven’t been to the hall, but as a bottom building, it is still worth a visit.

By MY Yueran |

I went to see the Finnish Philharmonic Orchestra's concert, located in People's Square.