Cirque du Soleil takes trademark big top to Shanghai

The Cirque du Soleil has raised the curtain on its first-ever show in mainland China, as the Quebec-born troupe opened a two-month run of Quidam in Shanghai on Thursday.

Cirque's recognizable blue-and-yellow, climate-controlledGrand Chapiteau has been erected across from the city's Science and Technology Museum, with about 2,500 spectators able to take in each show from inside the massive tent.

Quidam, one of the world-renowned troupe's six touring shows, offers Cirque's trademark blend of music, dance and acrobatics.

Like many Cirque productions, the show — partially brought to China by local firm ThemeSTAR China — draws inspiration from many different cultures around the world. The cast also reflects the global village, counting more than 50 performers hailing from more than a dozen countries, including four from China.

According to a recent report in Shanghai Daily, Cirque and local partners are spending approximately 90 million yuan (about $12.6 million) to stage the production (including marketing and promotional costs). Ticket prices range from 150 to 2,000 yuan (about $21 to $281).

Quidam will continue in Shanghai until Aug. 26, before travelling to Mexico.

In addition to its touring shows, Cirque has a number of permanent productions, mostly in Las Vegas, including long-running shows Mystère, O, Zumanity, Ka and the Beatles-themed Love, which celebrated its one-year anniversary this week.

In the works are future shows inspired by Elvis Presley and magician Criss Angel. In April 2006, Cirque officials also broke ground at Tokyo's Disneyland complex in preparation for its first permanent venue in Asia.

In recent years, China has been opening its doors to an increasing number of western artists and performers, welcoming a range of artists — from marquee recording artists Rolling Stones and Christina Aguilera to Canadian acts, including aboriginal troupe Red Sky and Toronto cellist Ofra Harnoy.

Shanghai in particular has been attempting to position itself as China's cultural hotspot.