Events That Won't Leave You Hungover, Oct 22-28
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, Oct 22
Christian Thielemann & The Staatskapelle Dresden
As part of the NCPA's ongoing Pure Classical 2018 program, which aims to present "absolute essentials of classical music," German conductor Christian Thielemann conducts one of the oldest orchestras in the world, the Staatskapelle Dresden, founded in 1548. For this presentation, they'll be playing works by Schumann, widely regarded as one of the greatest composers of the Romantic era. RMB 280-1,280. 7.30pm. National Centre For The Performing Arts (NCPA)
Tuesday, Oct 23
Free Workshop: Purpose, Passion, Profit
For this free workshop, relationship life coach Carnisa Berry will provide attendees with tips on how to improve your productivity by "helping you discover your purpose, live life with a passion, and earn a profit while doing it." Free. 6.30pm. Ramo Restaurant & Bar
Wednesday, Oct 24
"A Death in Peking" Global Book Launch
Many of us are already familiar with Paul French's Midnight in Peking, an account of the grisly and unsolved murder of 19-year-old Pamela Werner in Beijing in 1937. Now, Graeme Sheppard, a British police officer with over 30 years of experience tackles the same material to uncover why he believes the case presented in the aforementioned book is flawed, coming up instead with an entirely different conclusion. On Wednesday, The Bookworm will play host to Sheppard's A Death in Peking official book launch with the author in attendance. RMB 60 (includes a drink). 7.30-9.30pm. The Bookworm
Thursday, Oct 25
Sam Smith: The Thrill of It All World Tour in Beijing
Who knew sadness could sound so sweet? Chart-topping British pop star Sam Smith has built a career from belting out weepy, catchy fare, and now he’s set to crank open the waterworks in China’s capital this Thursday. Fans at his Cadillac Center concert will surely be reduced to sobbing messes by smash hits like “Stay With Me” and “Too Good at Goodbyes”. RMB 480-2,880. 7.30pm. Cadillac Center
Friday, Oct 26
WISE - The Future Think Tank
Some of Beijing's top creatives come together at UCCA with internationally renowned thinkers this Friday for a full day of talks, presentations, and hobnobbing. The topics covered will span technology, music, art, fashion, entertainment, business, media, and science and include topics such as "how AI can help us to solve world hunger," "what we can learn about the future by looking into the past," and "how to find China′s first international superstar." RMB 320, RMB 260 (advance). 10am-7pm. UCCA
The Beijing Postcards Historical Pub Quiz
Beijing Postcards and the Danish Chamber of Commerce will hold a special quiz this Wednesday at The Bookworm covering memorable events in Chinese history. Where is the First Ring Road? When was prostitution legalized in Beijing? And why did the concubines try to kill Emperor Jiajing? All these questions (OK, maybe not these specific questions) and more will be answered. Free. 7.30-10pm. The Bookworm
Saturday, Oct 27
Midnight in Peking Walking Tour
If you didn't get your fill of the Pamela Werner mystery at the Bookworm on Wednesday, or if you want to see how Sheppard and French's takes contrast, then check out this ongoing walking tour based around details in French's book. The coordinators also note that: "Most exciting of all, the newly uncovered Chinese police reports on the case detail several characters not mentioned in the book, offering critical new perspectives on the murder. For fans of the book, this is a tour not to be missed." RMB 388. Different locations
Sunday, Oct 28
Beijing Experience Autumn Barbecue
Finish the week with this autumn barbecue organized by Beijing Experience out by the reservoir in Yanqing. Revel in the turning leaves while stuffing your belly with slabs of Uruguayan beef on the barbecue (as well as vegetarian options) and plenty of pre-prepared Argentinean fare to share. Dogs welcome. RMB 280 (adults), RMB 250 (kids). 8.45am-6pm. Dongzhimen Subway Station
Find nearly absolutely every event under the gray Beijing sun via our events page here.
Images: Beijing Experience, staatskapelle-dresden.de, courtesy of the organizers