Looking for what to do this coming weekend? Sing out as several schools will stage musicals and performances to the tune of some famous pop rhythms. Let’s rock this edition of The Weekend Ahead with…

On April 21 and 22, the Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB) StageCats are ready to rock ‘n roll with “We Will Rock You: School Edition.” This musical tells the story of Galileo Figaro, a young man who wants to bring back real music to a futuristic world where rock ’n’ roll is banned. Along the way, Galileo meets a colorful cast of wild bohemians, “gaga kids”, and evil super-villains – all of whom bring new life and incredible vocals to Queen’s unforgettable music.

“Rock” is the third musical in 3 years for the StageCats, who have previously thrilled audiences with hit performances of “High School Musical” (2015) and “Grease” (2016). Over 50 students are involved in this perfect mix of a Broadway show and epic rock concert.

We Will Rock You: School Edition, April 21 to 22
All ages. RMB 30 (students), RMB 50 (adults). Tickets can be purchased at the CISB front desk or from a cast/crew member. 7pm (April 21), 2pm and 7pm (April 22). Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB). (patrick.connolly@cisbeijing.com).

Meanwhile, get thrilled by the amazing voices of the American Boychoir as they perform for the first time in China on April 20.

The American Boychoir have long been recognized as one of the finest musical ensembles in the United States, regularly performing with world-class orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. They are also often featured with such illustrious conductors as James Levine, Charles Dutoit, and Alan Gilbert.

American Boychoir Concert, April 20
Ages 9+. Touring frequently at home and abroad as preeminent ambassadors, the American Boychoir spread messages of beauty and hope through outstanding musical achievement. Tickets can be purchased here. RMB 180-580. 7.30-9.30pm. Beijing Concert Hall.

On April 21, Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) will bring to life the timeless Chinese folktale, Hua Mulan (花木兰). The modern adaptation is directed and performed by more than 50 DCB teachers and students.

Hua Mulan Performance at DCB, April 21
Ages 8+. Everybody is welcome to enjoy DCB’s adaptation of the story of Hua Mulan, a legendary female warrior from the Southern and Northern Dynasties period (420–589) of Chinese history. As a daughter of an aged warrior, she impersonates a man to take her father’s place during a general conscription to counter foreign invasion. Tickets can be purchased here. RMB 50 (adult); RMB 30 (children). 7-8.30pm. Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) Wodehouse Theatre.

And starting April 21, a non-traditional performance hits the center stage of the Tianqiao Theater. “Dad’s Time Machine” combines visual artist, installation art, and live music, and further blurs the line between genres by having puppets appear on stage with live actors. Described as a ‘fairy tale for adults,’ it looks at the relationship between a father and son as they pass through the different stages of life.

“Dad’s Time Machine” features life-sized puppets built by German and Hungarian artisans. The play has toured as far abroad as Canada, where it was selected as the CINAR Performing Arts Seminar Official Program Performance. The language of the performance is Chinese. A matinee performance is held at 2.30pm on April 21 in addition to the evening performance on Saturday; a matinee performance only is held on Sunday.

Dad’s Time Machine, April 21 to May 1
Adults. RMB 128 to RMB 328. 7.30pm-9pm. To book tickets, visit https://www.douban.com/event/28175475/ Tianqiao Theatre.

Photos: Courtesy of CISB, American Boychoir, and Dad’s Time Machine

More stories by this author here.
Email: andypenafuerte@beijing-kids.com
Instagram: @coolkidandy

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Free
Setting Boundaries for Kids, April 10
Adults. In the face of children’s emotions and tantrums, should parents give in to anger, compromise, or stay the set course? Patty Durbin is speaking about her experiences establishing boundaries for kids. She is sharing how to clarify responsibilities and establish clear boundaries for our children. Durbin is also discussing the various mistakes that we can make during the process of boundary setting. Please RSVP to mops@bicf.org. Free. 10am-noon. 21st Century Hotel.

Daystar Academy K-Middle School Open House, April 12
Ages 5-14. Daystar Academy has recently unveiled its brand new middle school building and a new FIFA standard field. In addition, recent assessment data proves that the school is fulfilling on its commitment to deliver premier bilingual education for its students. Visit Daystar to learn more about its vibrant program for kindergarten, elementary and middle school at its next open house April 12th. Please register here. Free. 9am-2pm. Daystar Academy (Beigao Campus). (jaw@daystarchina.cn, 186 0120 6155).

How to Fail Well, April 12
Adults. During this parent seminar, Lance King is delivering some practical advice on how can parents support their children so that they can see challenges as opportunity and setbacks as springboards to success. He is also talking about 21st Century Skills which is specifically targeted to how parents can support their children with ‘study skills’. Mr. King is an internationally renowned author, educator, and workshop facilitator who has worked on the development of the MYP, IBDP, and IBCP programs. Reserve a seat here. Free. 2-3.30pm. Edward Alleyn Theatre at Dulwich College Beijing (DCB).

HoK International Primary Curriculum Seminar, April 12
Adults. This interactive seminar is looking at recent research in learning, explore how the IPC (International Primary Curriculum) can benefit your child, and how parents can help support their child in learning at Home and in school. It is led by Mr Neil MacRae who’s based in Singapore from fieldwork education. Free. 6-8.30pm. House of Knowledge.

Hope International School Open House (K-12), April 12
Adults. Prospective parents are invited to Hope International School’s (HIS) Open House. Come take a campus tour, meet parents, teachers and students, and have a personal Q&A time. HIS is the only K3-G12 international school in Beijing that provides quality education with a total faith-based perspective. Free. 9-11am. Hope International School. (kwan.sherry@hopeintlschool.org, (+86) 400-800-8781).

Dulwich College Beijing Junior School Open House, April 13
Adults. Prospective parents can come and learn about DCB’s junior school curriculum. Attendees can expect to find out about our proven pastoral care system and how DCB challenges and inspires its students. To register this event, click here. Free. 9-11am. DCB Legend Garden Campus.

Western Academy of Beijing’s High School Art Exhibition, April 15
Ages 8+ Western Academy of Beijing’s (WAB) High School artists are displaying their portfolio from years of work, as the campus building transforms into a gorgeous art gallery for you to enjoy. Free. 2-4pm. Western Academy of Beijing. (hsreception@wab.edu, +86 10 5986 5588).

Preview Bilingual Education with Ivy & Daystar, April 15
Adults. Daystar Academy is offering its 50:50 bilingual model for elementary students at its Sanlitun campus. Kindergarten students meanwhile will be able to enjoy Ivy Academy’s excellent, all English program. All of this will be held in what will be a completely renovated campus equipped with new state-of-the-art air filtration systems and purpose-built outdoor turf. Free. 10am-noon. Daystar Academy (Sanlitun Campus). (8532 2500).

HoK International Primary Curriculum Info Session, April 12
Adults.This free interactive seminar is looking at recent research in learning, explore how international primary curriculum (IPC) can benefit children, and talk about how parents can help support their child’s learning both at home and at school. It is led by Mr Neil MacRae who’s based in Singapore from fieldwork education. RSVP required. Free. 6-8.30pm. House of Knowledge (Shunyi Campus).

Unique
Spring Sewing Camp at the SLab, April 10 to 14
Ages 7-18. This Spring holiday, The SLab will be running two sessions of week-long sewing courses for students. Week one will focus on the sewing basics and week two will delve into more complicated techniques like free-hand sewing and embroidery. RMB 1888 per week; RMB 3200 for both weeks. 10am-3pm. The SLab.

Gastronomy Journey with Guest Chef Akmal Anuar, April 14
Adults. Chef Akmal won the award of Worlds 50 Best restaurant San Pellegrino from 2009 to 2012, Asia ranked top 1 in 2012 when he was head chef of Iggy’s restaurant; ranked No. 1 of Miele Guide from 2010 to 2012; he moved to Dubai in 2014 and opened his own restaurant 3fils in 2017, and it had been awarded with the Best New Opening Restaurant by Time Out Dubai. Classic Italian cuisine with a modern twist is served in quiet elegance and cozy ambiance of Barolo, where dining provides an exceptional Italian experience, defining the Italian lifestyle in Beijing. RMB 688-1788. 11.30am-10.30pm. Ritz-Carlton, Beijing.

Yishion Camelot Grand Prix & Jumping Equuleus FEI CSI 2*, April 14 to 16
Ages 9+ The Equuleus International Riding Club, located in the Shunyi area, will host an international equestrian show from April 14 to 16. During the 3-day event, amateur, professional, and young riders from in and out of China will gather at Equuleus in order to participate in this CSI 2* accredited by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI). The show-jumping contest will take place in magnificent outdoor arenas. Prices vary. 8.30am-6.30pm. Equuleus International Riding Club.

Easter Celebrations at the Ritz-Carlton, April 16
All ages. Hotel guests and Easter Brunch guests are invited to a fun Easter Egg Hunt in the garden, creative egg paintings by using Ray&Co pencils; plasticine kneading with the artists from Tosee Art Education and funny clown play will be as special treat for kids. The unique Easter egg hunting activity will lead children to a fantastic world. A series of stunning gifts will fill the day with more fun and laughter. RMB 618 (ages 6-12 half price). 11.30am-3pm. Ritz-Carlton, Beijing. (5908 8161).

Best of Next Week
Harrow Beijing Art Exhibition, April 18
Ages 10+ Everyone is invited in the official opening of the GCSE and A Level Art Exhibition. Celebrate Harrow Beijing student achievements on April 18 in the school’s Art Department. If you cannot attend the official opening, the exhibition will remain on display until April 21. Free. 9am-4pm. Harrow International School Beijing.

Parkour Club by Imagine, April 18 to May 16
Ages 7-18. Due to popular demand, Parkour is now a weekly club! A great way to build foundation skills for all other freestyle action sports: balancing, jumping, flipping, landing rolling, climbing, vaulting, and so much more! RMB 400/class. 5.30-9pm. One Jump Trampoline Park. (www.imagine-china.com/parkour-club/).

Hyde Academy Tour with Admissions Director and Administrative Principal, April 19
Adults. Would you like your child immersed in a caring and cooperative learning environment that provides a rigorous academic program? Join Administrative Prinicipal Jennifer Sachs and Admissions Director Lian Peng for an informative meeting and tour. Free. 10-11.30am. Hyde Academy.

Meet the Principals/ISB MS/HS Open House, April 19
Grades 6-12. ISB’s middle school (Gr. 6-8) and high school (Gr. 9-12) Principals invite prospective parents and students to meet with them in a personal setting, where they will share information about ISB’s challenging curriculum and innovative teaching practices. Families will also have the opportunity to tour our world-class facilities, following the discussion. Free. 9-11.30am. International School Beijing (ISB). (www.isb.bj.edu.cn, 8149 2345 ext 1047).

BSB, Shunyi Open Day, April 19
Adults. Take a tour and visit our primary, German primary and secondary classrooms to see the great teaching and learning taking place. Parents can to talk to teachers and learn about the BSB curriculum, music and sports programs and check out the facilities too. Free. 9-11am. British School Beijing (BSB), Shunyi. (www.bsbshunyi.com/openday, 8047 3558).

Cavalia, April 19 to May 1
All ages. Known as the world’s largest touring production, Cavalia marries the equestrian Beyond the impressive technical display and equestrian and acrobatic numbers that are unlike anything ever seen on stage, Cavalia is first and foremost a work that feeds the soul. arts, stage arts and high-tech theatrical effects at never-before-seen levels. RMB 420-1620. 2.30-9.30pm. Chaoyang Park.

Dulwich College Beijing Early Years Open House, April 20
Adults. At the open house, you will meet with Head of Early Years David Mumford for a presentation on “Early Years at DCB – a UK curriculum designed for the hands, hearts and minds of international young learners.” A campus tour and Q&A session will be held after the presentation. To register, click here. Free. 8.30-10.30am. Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) Riviera Main Campus.

INN Shunyi Coffee Morning at BSB Chatterbox, April 20
Adults. The British School of Beijing, Shunyi (BSB, Shunyi) is hosting this months’ International Newcomers Network (INN) Shunyi coffee morning. Join us for this great opportunity to meet other newcomers and old-timers in the Shunyi area! Contact Brenda for more details. Free. 10am-noon. British School Beijing (BSB), Shunyi. (brenda.leung@britishschool.org.cn, 8047 3588).

Tea Brewing with That’s Mandarin, April 20
Adults. That’s Mandarin is teaching its development and characteristics, but also the secrets of its brewing process. You will be able to impress your colleagues, or your family with your professional mastery of tea. RMB 50. 7-9pm. That’s Mandarin. (info@thatsmandarin.com, 86 10 5218 6432).

American Boychoir Concert, April 20
Ages 9+ As an icon of American musical excellence, the Boychoir has been invited to sing for every sitting US President since John F. Kennedy. Touring frequently at home and abroad as preeminent ambassadors, the American Boychoir spreads messages of beauty and hope through outstanding musical achievement. 2017 is the first China Tour for American Boychoir. Tickets can be purchased here. RMB 180-580. 7.30-9.30pm. Beijing Concert Hall.

DCB Hua Mulan Performance, April 21
Ages 8+ Enjoy this modern adaptation of famous Chinese folk tale directed and performed by more than 50 DCB teachers and students. Hua Mulan (Chinese: 花木兰) is a legendary woman warrior from the Southern and Northern Dynasties period (420–589) of Chinese history. As a daughter of aged warrior, she impersonates a man to take her father’s place during a general conscription to counter foreign invasion. Over time, the story of Hua Mulan rose in popularity as a Chinese folk tale. Tickets can be purchased here. RMB 50 (adult); RMB 30 (children). 7-8.30pm. Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) Wodehouse Theatre.

We Will Rock You: School Edition, April 21 to 22
All ages. Bohemian Rhapsody! We are the Champions! Killer Queen! These are just some of the classic Queen songs featured in this beloved musical. The exciting and energetic show tells the story of Galileo Figaro, a young man who wants to bring back real music to a futuristic world where rock ’n’ roll is banned. RMB 30 (students), RMB 50 (adults). 7pm (April 21), 2pm and 7pm (April 22). Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB). (patrick.connolly@cisbeijing.com).

3e Charity Community Day & Roundabout Book Fair, April 22
All ages. 3e International School and Roundabout are welcoming families to attend the annual 3e Charity Community Day. Visit the event to find bargain treasures and entertain the family with games and activities! Families are invited to sell well maintained second-hand goods: toys, books and other household items. Families and Vendors can book a table for RMB100 (table fee will be donated to Roundabout). To book a table please email: community@3einternationalschool.org. Free. 10am-noon. 3e International School. (6437 3344).

BIBA Roundabout Book Fair, April 22
All ages. BIBA is hosting a Roundabout Book Fair. Choose from thousands of gently used books for all the family. There will be books for children of all ages and adults (fiction and non-fiction), English, Chinese and more for sale. Prices start as low as RMB 1 and all proceeds will help children in need. Free. 10am-3pm. Beijing International Bilingual Academy (BIBA).

MSB Roundabout Book Fair, April 22
All ages. MSB is hosting a Roundabout Book Fair. Roundabout will offer thousands of gently used books from many categories and for all the family. You can choose from English and Chinese books. Prices start as low as RMB 1. So come and pick your favorite reads for the summer to come. All proceeds will help a child in need. Free. 10am-3pm. International Montessori School of Beijing (MSB).

Unity Day with Daystar & Ivy Academy, April 22
All ages. Join Daystar Academy and Ivy Schools as they celebrate their second annual UNITY DAY. The event, which also takes place on Earth Day this year, promises to be both fun-filled and meaningful with game booths, delicious food from both Daystar’s signature sustainable food program and outside vendors, music, and entertainment, sports activity and more! Entrance is free but proceed of all game participation and items sold will go towards an environmental cause. So be sure not to miss this opportunity! Free. 10am-3pm. Daystar Academy (Beigao Campus). (jaw@daystarchina.cn, 186 0120 6155).

The Beijing Flea Market, April 22
All ages. This is Beijing’s one-stop shop for all things made in Beijing, with more than 35 vendors featuring some of the best local, independent design and crafts from both established and emerging makers. Shoppers will also find baked goods, wine, and more! Be sure to stop in Preface salon for to meet their senior stylists who will be doing specials during the day. Free. 12pm-6pm. POP-UP BEIJING.

Public Beijing International Film Festival Tour, April 22
Ages 8+ Newman Tours is offering a one off Public Beijing International Film Festival Tour and a Public Forbidden City Tour every Sunday. To celebrate the Beijing International Film Festival, Newman Tours is offering a one-off Public Tour of the China National Film Museum. RMB 190 (adults), RMB 120 (kids). 1.30-3.30pm. Newmen Tours Beijing. (info@newmantours.com, www.newmantours.com, 86 138 1777 0229).

Children’s Magic Show, April 23
Kids will enjoy the ‘Magic Journey’ live action magic show, which helps children to discover the ‘magical world.’ With help from the audience, the magician in this popular show guides kids through a series of tricks and enchantments which thrill and delight younger audiences. RMB 100 to RMB 200. Legends Small Theater. (https://www.douban.com/event/28126370/).

“Classic” BSB Fashion Show 2017, April 23
Ages 9+ Come and watch “Classic” – a fashion show organized by the students at The British School of Beijing (BSB) Shunyi. It includes 2 fashion shows and a mini market, where a fashion show will showcase and sell original designs made by students! Tickets can be purchased here. RMB 260 (non-VIP), RMB 130 (VIP). British School Beijing (BSB), Shunyi.