The best shows in Beijing this April

The best theatre, dance and classical music in Beijing this April

April is here, and with it comes a host of shows to enjoy on one of the many stages around Beijing. Whether it's classical music, opera or stage productions that are your jam – or all of them – we've got you covered with our picks of the best shows taking place this month.

NT Live: Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?

UCCA. Apr 7. 120RMB; 200RMB (ticket package)

In the early hours of the morning on the campus of an American college, Martha, much to her husband George’s displeasure, has invited the new professor and his wife to their home for some afterparty drinks. As the alcohol flows and dawn approaches, the young couple is drawn into George and Martha's toxic games until the evening reaches its climax in a moment of devastating truth-telling. Stars Imelda Staunton.

Valery Gergiev and the Mariinsky Orchestra

NCPA. Apr 16. 100-880RMB

Conductor extraordinaire Valery Gergiev leads the Mariinsky Orchestra in a Mussorgsky programme, including Overture to Khovanshchina, Night on Bald Mountain, Songs and Dances of Death and Pictures at an Exhibition.

TNT Theatre: Julius Caesar

Longfu Theatre. Apr 19-21. 120-380RMB

When Caesar returns to Rome from the wars, in effect a dictator, Brutus and his cohort conclude that his ambition must be contained – which in Rome can mean only one thing: the mighty leader must be executed. But once the deed is done the radical traitors must reckon with the strength of a new wave of power led by Mark Antony. Will Caesar's ghost be avenged? Shakespeare's heightened political thriller exposes the passionate blood that flows between men in power.

Philharmonix

NCPA. Apr 25. 100-500RMB

This all-star ensemble brings together three members of the Vienna Philharmonic, two Berlin Philharmonic soloists, one of the most versatile Austrian pianists plus an improvising and singing violinist for a heady mix of classical, klezmer, folk, jazz, Latin, and even pop. Arriving this April, these world-class musicians are out to finally play the kind of repertoire one would never see on the playbill of their distinguished orchestras.

Lord of the Dance: Dangerous Games

Beijing Exhibition Center. Apr 27-May 1. 100-800RMB

Lord of the Dance, Michael Flatley's Irish dance tour de force, set a record-breaking run of 21 consecutive shows at London's Wembley Arena back in 1998. Arriving in Beijing this April, watch the fancy-footed dancers follow in his footsteps and perform their latest thrilling production Dangerous Games.

National Ballet of China: Swan Lake

NCPA. Apr 29-May 1. 180-800RMB

China’s favourite ballet done by its best company – until the Bolshoi or Kirov come to town, this is the one to see. Founded on December 31 in 1959, the National Ballet of China is China's only national ballet company. For the past five decades, the company has introduced numerous outstanding classical and contemporary ballet works to Chinese audiences, while also placing great importance on combining classical ballets with Chinese culture.

For more shows to see this April, hit 'Read more'.

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