Weekly Event Roundup 1.28-1.31

The latest installment in this ludacrously lucrative franchise sees the Chipmunks plot to break up their handler’s Dave’s engagement due to the fiancee’s bully son. Released just before Christmas in North America, it’s already raked in over USD136 million, ensuring Number Five is around the corner.

Jan 27-31: The Five Fools 

This children’s musical has been praised by the New York Times as a “lesson in the power of civility.” The show follows a circus full of colorful characters from the love-struck strongman to the “bad” ringmaster. Despite their hang-ups, they manage to conquer their fears in a touching story that will have the whole family enraptured. The show features live music, acrobatics, illusion and ample amounts of comedy. The bilingual show mixes English and Chinese, creating an environment that encourages language learning for the kids. 
> Jan 27-31, 7.30pm (with 2pm matinee show on Saturday), RMB160-360. Shanghai Dramatic Arts Center, tickets.

Jan 28-30: Punchline Comedy

Maybe not for the kids, but adults can enjoy this one! Punchline Comedy rings in 2016 with a stacked triple bill featuring Brit Andre Vincent, AussieWayne Deakin and Yankee Dave Fulton. Besides their different nationalities, the three comics will be bringing in three different types of style. Formerly a circus performer, Vincent found comedy success in America before returning home where he's a UK favorite. Deakin (pictured above) is the consumate professional that has conquered the London comedy scene, while packing clubs across the world. Fulton is on the "angry young man" growing up tip, bringing a dark edge to the evening.
> Jan 28, 8pm, RMB290. Zapata’s, tickets. See event listing.
> Jan 29, 8pm, RMB290. The Exchange, B/1, River Wing, Pudong Shangri-la, tickets. See event listing.
> Jan 30, 8pm, RMB290. Blossoms, 2/F, Kerry Hotel Pudong, tickets. See event listing.

Jan 30: Fasching

Let your hair down as Paulaner Bräuhaus on Fenyang Lu celebrates Germany’s unofficial fifth ‘foolish’ season. Dress up in fanciful costumes while indulging in an extensive all-you-can-eat buffet spread full of Bavarian favorites, as well as free-flow Paulaner beer and other drinks. The resident house band will perform rousing German Schlager songs to add to the festive vibe.
> Jan 30, 6.30pm-late, RMB358. Paulaner (Fenyang Lu), see event listing.

Jan 30: Game of Thrones Banquet

Fun themed dinners is a 2016 trend we can get behind and Mr. Harry hosts a 16-course candle-bit Game of Thrones themed banquet. Enjoy courses like Boar-atheon Suckling Pig and Spicy Dornish snake. We can only assume the dinner will end on a happier note than the lavish Red Wedding.
> Jan 30, 7-10pm, RMB498. Mr. Harry.

Jan 30-31: The Great Gatsby

As the 2014 Taglioni European Ballet Award for Europe’s Best Dance Company, the Northern Ballet enjoys a hallowed reputation. They'll finally be bringing their acclaimed adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic to Shanghai for the first time. Expect a vibrant show that incorporates different types of styles, while resolutely remaining a ballet. For more, check out our feature on The Great Gatsby.
> Jan 30-31, 7.15pm, RMB80-880. Shanghai Grand Theatre, tickets. See event listing.