An Art Deco icon is Shanghai's hottest music venue this weekend

Whether you’re free on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, swing by Rockbund this weekend to witness a slice of Shanghai history: an Art Deco icon is reopening its doors for a rare summer concert.

“ROCKBUNDLESS | Capitol Project” is reactivating a nearly century-old theatre with contemporary tunes. 🎶

One of Shanghai’s most prestigious cinemas of old, the Capitol Theatre (光陆大戏院) was designed by Hungarian architect Charles Henry Gonda and completed in 1928. The building helped define the city’s golden age of entertainment and remains one of Shanghai’s finest surviving Art Deco landmarks.

The most distinctive feature of the theatre is arguably its dramatic corner tower overlooking Suzhou Creek.

Photos courtesy of Rockbund and Historic Shanghai members

“The Capitol Theatre was the very first air-conditioned cinema in China,” shares Patrick Cranley, co-founder of Historic Shanghai, the city’s oldest heritage society.

The middle part of the building — known also as the Shamoon Building — saw professional offices. And the top floor was a flat for the owners, the Shamoons, part of the Sephardi community, who ended up in the United States.

Historic Shanghai has been following this project for many years. Glad to see that the public will once again be able to enter.”

The awe-inspiring theatre is reason enough to visit, but the featured artists and activities seal the deal (see below).

Click posters to flip them

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While Rockbund is responsible for reopening the space, OKOK Club takes full credit for curating the talents, who demonstrate the diversity, vitality and creativity of China’s independent music scene.

There is a general theme to the three days of shows: guitars and experimentation on Friday, groove and fusion on Saturday, and electronics and impact on Sunday.

Look out for Carsick Cars, one of China’s most influential rock bands; modern Mongolian music by NaraBara; and even a dancehall painting session during Disco King’s set. 🎨

Your concert ticket comes with perks, too. Nearby F&B spots — Luneurs, Maison Jia, Mozzarella e Vino, and Naive Coffee Bar — are offering freebies and exclusive discounts; simply show your e-ticket.

All visuals were shared by Rockbund This article is not to be replicated without prior consent.