Beijing's Best Events That Won't Leave You Hungover, Aug 20-26
Our Events Watch series aims to highlight happenings that aren't focused on alcohol and drinking, but instead take a more educational or productive approach. Events include comedy, talks, networking events, markets, and dinners.
Monday, Aug 20
Beijing Women's Network Monthly Spotlight Dinner
Women are invited to join Joan Xu, Harvard alumna, financier, consultant, and screenwriter, at this the latest in the Women's Network monthly Spotlight Dinners. Xu will divulge her experiences of what it's like to have "straddled cultural identities, career paths, and life choices, leading to her successful career as a bridge-builder and screenwriter." Read our recent interview with Xu ahead of the event here. RMB 70. 7-9pm. In and Out
Tuesday, Aug 21
Poetry Reading
On Tuesday night, head to Wudaokou's 706 Youth Space for an evening of poetry and literature, written artforms of which the organizers say are about "the sharing of experience, the pooling of human understanding about living, loving, and dying. The best poetry has a magical quality – a sense of being more than the sum of its parts." If you're wanting to get involved you can also register and submit your poem via the QR code above. Free. 8-10pm. 706 Youth Space
Wednesday, Aug 22
Chakradance Workshop: Dance to the Rhythm of Your Soul
Avoid the mid-week slump and beckoning for beer on Wednesday by joining this LifeSkills4Me dance workshop instead. Valeria Shen will discuss the beneficial qualities and development tips of her chosen trade: chakradance, a form of dance that is "based on the ancient Kundalini chakra system and is specially designed to bring out the energy of each chakra though specific music and guided imagery." The session will conclude with a networking session to allow you to meet like-minded people. RMB 58 (mandatory registration). 6.30-8.45pm. WeWork, Guanghua Lu
Thursday, Aug 23
Korean Performance Artist Lee Kun-Yong Solo Exhibition
Pace Gallery presents the first Beijing solo exhibition dedicated to Korean artist Lee Kun-yong, considered a pioneer of performance art in Korea. Having been an active artist for over 50 years, Lee got his start in the avant-garde movements of the '60s and cemented his place at the forefront of Korea's experimental art scene with his showing at the 1973 Paris Biennial. Lee continues to explore the relationship between body and physical space while acting as an honorary professor at Kunsan National University. Thru Sep 1, 10am-6pm. Pace Gallery
Friday, Aug 24
Tom Rhodes Standup Set
On Friday, veteran comedian Tom Rhodes, who has appeared on the likes of The Tonight Show as well as bagging his own special on Netflix, will take the stage at Salud. Considered a comic's comic and highly regarded among his peers (think Joe Rogan and Marc Maron), Rhodes has toured the international circuit extensively for more than 20 years. RMB 150, RMB 120 (advance). 8.30pm. Salud
Saturday, Aug 25
The Beijing Flea Market: Summer Edition
A one-stop shop for all things made in Beijing, the Beijing Flea Market returns for it's summer edition, featuring 40 vendors and some of the best local, independent design and crafts from both established and emerging makers. You'll also be able to stock up on gifts to take home, baked goods, dairy-free froyo, wine, and much more. Free. Midday-6pm. TechTemple Sanlitun
Sunday, Aug 26
Ballet Philippines
The Ballet Philippines, a Philippine classical and contemporary dance company, comes to Beijing's Tianqiao Theater on Sunday. Titled MasterPieces, the dance troupe is under the direction of the dance company's founder and artistic director, Alice Reyes, who was declared a National Artist for Dance by her country in 2014. Price TBA. 7.30pm. Tianqiao Theater
Monday, Aug 27
INN's Annual Arrival Survival
Finally, a special addition for next Monday, the International Newcomers Network (INN) meets for their annual survival workshop to help newbies navigate the intricacies of day to day life in Beijing so that no one has to feel left behind. A number of knowledgeable guest speakers will be on hand to provide advice on topics such as money and banking, safety and emergency tips, transportation, air and water quality, WeChat and WeChat Wallet tips, online subscriptions, and much more. RMB 100. 10am-1pm. Capital Club Athletic Center
These events and many more can be found via our Events page here.
Images: Pace Beijing, courtesy of the oganizers, townandcountry.ph
