Shanghai to usher in 2018 with a star-studded bash
The 2018 Shanghai New Year’s Eve Countdown Party, to be held at Xintiandi’s Taipinghu Park, will feature an array of famous entertainers, officials have announced.
Celebrated Hong Kong singer and actor Aaron Kwok, Taiwan pop singer Yoga Lin and Kunqu Opera artist Zhang Jun will perform their hits.
Zhang, known as “Prince of Kunqu Opera,” was honored as a UNESCO Artist for Peace in 2011. He will give a modern interpretation of the traditional art form at the party.
The three-hour New Year’s Eve gala will be broadcast live on Dragon TV, iQiyi and Youku.
The stage will be set on Taipingqiao Lake, where giant LED screens will be used to create visually stunning images of the Great Wall and the Silk Road. Elements of the Belt and Road Initiative will also be incorporated into the party.
The countdown installation will be shaped like a shining magnolia globe and will display the city’s skyline and landmark resorts.
Officials noted that no official celebration will be held on the Bund this New Year’s Eve.
An artist's rendition of the Xintiandi countdown party stage
