improv – Beijing Kids

Fall All Over These Month-End Events: Pumpkins, Spice, and All Things Nice!

Andy Penafuerte III — Mon, 22 Oct 2018 00:00:40 +0000

**Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids!**

Let us know by leaving your message in the comments section below or by emailing us at webeditor@beijing-kids.com. Follow us on WeChat (ID: beijing-kids) or join our family events WeChat group by sending us your WeChat QR code. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned. For more events that may not be included in this list, please check our Events page.

Pauline’s Cuisine: Pumpkin, Spice, and Everything Nice, Oct 23
Looking for dishes to spice up your Halloween? Come join Chef Pauline and her bespoke cooking class where you will learn to cook dishes and a dessert using pumpkins! RMB 420. 10am-1pm. Shunyi location to be given to confirmed attendees. (WeChat ID: paulus155)

Improv Movement Workshop, Oct 23
The International School of Beijing (ISB) in partnership with Shunyifornia, a brand new performing arts center in Shunyi, will host a free hour-long improvisation movement workshop and a contemporary dance performance by award-winning Filipino choreographer, dancer, and theater artist, PJ Rebullida. Explore movement, space, and shape through a fun, interactive, and dynamic workshop. Adults. Free. 6.30-8.30pm. Shunyifornia 23 Yu Hua Shunyi (186 1083 0067, hnorthcott@isb.bj.edu.cn)

Effectual Thinking and Mindfulness Workshop, Oct 24
While traditional business models rely on careful planning and the removal of obstacles, effectual thinking sees both the future and obstacles as opportunities to leverage. Erin Henshaw of the Mind Body Project has worked with Saras Sarasvathy (founder of Effectuation) at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business to integrate mindfulness tools with the research-backed Effectuation Framework used by expert entrepreneurs to create experiential programs. See her speak at DayDayUp in Sanlitun on October 24. RMB 180 (members), RMB 220 (non-members). 7-9.30pm. DayDayUp Sanlitun. (WeChat ID: Evander248)

CISB StageCats Present Sweeney Todd (School Edition), Oct 25-27
CISB StageCats are back with their darkest and most mature musical to date: Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. From legendary Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim, Sweeney Todd is a dark comedy that tells the thrilling story of a madman barber returning to his home in London after years of imprisonment. Please note that this show is rated PG-13 for mature content. The organizers recommend audience members under 13 attend with a parent. Ages 13+. RMB 50 (adults), RMB 30 (students). 7pm (doors open at 6.30pm). Canadian International School of Beijing. (www.cisbtheatre.com)

Marriot Yao Foundation Charity Gala, Oct 26
Marriott North China Business Council and Yao Foundation invite everyone to the Marriott · Yao Foundation Charity Gala Dinner on October 26. All proceeds of the gala will be donated to the foundation, to help support its initiatives in improving education and sports development for Chinese youth. RMB 1,888 (buy tickets here). 6-10pm. Renaissance Beijing Capital Hotel.

WAB Gala 2018: Shanghai Swing, Oct 27
Travel back in time to 1920s Shanghai, where glitz, glamor, and swanky jazz create a swingin’ scene. Western Academy of Beijing’s gala takes place at the Beijing Four Seasons Hotel, with live and silent auctions, entertainment, fine dining, dancing, and more. Funds raised from the gala will support the NewBlu, a refurbishment project of the school’s beloved Blu Theater. All ages. RMB 1,200 (individual tickets), RMB 11,000 (table for 10 guests). 6pm. Beijing Four Seasons Hotel.

The Beijing Flea Market: Autumn 2018 Edition, Oct 27
The Beijing Flea Market invites everyone to their autumn edition, with creatives and makers from around the city bringing their goods for the show. The market hosts vendors of coffee, chutneys and pickles, artists, jewelry makers, and others, whose products are all made in Beijing. Free admission. Noon-6pm. Tech Temple Sanlitun.

Halloween Party at Adventure Zone, Oct 27
Party like a monster at the Kerry Adventure Zone on October 27. Kids have a chance to celebrate Halloween with tons of fun activities, including face painting, pumpkin carving, and a candy hunt. Come dressed in your Halloween best and show off your costume. RMB 550 (purchase tickets here). 9am. Kerry Adventure Zone.

Eighth Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest at The Schoolhouse, Oct 27
Select a pumpkin and decorate or carve it (while quantities last). The creations will be displayed and lit up as jack-o-lanterns at the end of the day, to be judged by the team at The Brickyard. Prizes will be awarded in two categories: Children and teens (aged up to 18) and adults. The winning child or teen will receive a gift certificate worth RMB 688 for purchases at The Schoolhouse, while the winning adult will receive a gift certificate for a free night and breakfasts at The Brickyard for two people. Any guest who wears a Halloween costume while dining from 11am to 3.30pm will receive a free dessert from the a la carte menu. Note: The Schoolhouse will keep the pumpkins for display. Only registered entrants will be eligible for prizes and registration means The Schoolhouse may announce winners’ names and show their creations in their marketing materials. 2-4pm. The Brickyard Retreat Center.

Winter SaladBoxx Workshop, Oct 29
Grow an indoor salad garden with the Winter SaladBoxx. By understanding how nature works, we can create the appropriate environment for a natural phenomenon to take place. Through this project, you will learn how to solve simple problems related to urban vegetable growing. As part of the workshop fees, participants will receive everything they need to make their Winter SaladBoxx, a portable vegetable garden system. Adults. RMB 600 (register here). 9am-noon. Hello Future Kindergarten.

INN’s Volunteering Solutions for Beijing, Oct 29
Join the International Newcomer’s Network (INN) this month as their topic is all about volunteering solutions. They will have several local charity organizations and groups on hand this morning giving a brief introduction of their respective organization and what type of volunteers are needed to help them out. Hopefully, you will find one or even several that are of interest to you to participate in. Adults. RMB 60. 10am-noon. Capital Mansion Athletic Club. (WeChat ID: INNBeijing1994, Juli Bradley: 138 1170 5071, INNBeijing16@outlook.com)

Photos: darf_nicht_mehr_hochladen via Pixabay and courtesy of featured event organizers

Your October 2018 Event Calendar: Get Ready for a Month Jam-Packed with Fun!

Andy Penafuerte III — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 00:00:11 +0000

**Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids!**

Fun for Everyone

The Beijing Pizza Festival, Oct 13-14
It’s the sweet scent of dough and cheese rolling through the capital to new and exciting places, namely Zhongguancun’s sprawling Software Park in Haidian, which will play host to the 2018 Beijing Pizza Festival. We’ve finally found the perfect spot for this year’s fest, breaking new ground at that west Beijing location as we take it to the capital’s student and tech hub. Themed after Roman Holiday, the iconic 1953 romantic comedy starring Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn, this year’s event is an homage to the capital of Italy and the iconic dish that the country birthed – pizza. All ages. RMB 20 (presale), RMB 30 (on the door). 11am-8pm. Zhongguancun Software Park.

12th beijingkids Halloween Costume Party: Head to Outer Space, Oct 27-28
Head to outer space with JingKids and beijingkids this Halloween! Dress as your favorite astronaut or space alien and join us for an out-of-this-world adventure! This party is designed for children 9 and under (Pre-K through Grade 4). Older children are welcomed to attend but be advised they may be with much younger children. Children and parents. Entrance tickets TBA. 9.30am-4pm. Canadian International School of Beijing.

Community

Roundabout 10th Anniversary Charity Gala Ball, Oct 19
The focus of Roundabout’s 10th anniversary Charity Gala Ball will be to raise money for all the children they support. Gala sponsor ifeng.com will broadcast the event live on their website and on Phoenix TV. There will be an amazing raffle, silent and live auctions, and entertainment from our international community. Adults. RMB 1,100. 6pm. Hyatt Regency Wangjing. (theroundaboutball@outlook.com)

SwedCham 20 Years – The Great Gatsby Anniversary Gala, Oct 20
SwedCham China invites everyone to this special occasion at the Wanda Vista Hotel in Beijing. A grand evening awaits, filled with the 1920s glamour of The Great Gatsby, prestigious entertainment, an exquisite Swedish menu, and the stars that have followed the Chamber through the years. SwedCham hopes that you will join them to celebrate their 20 years in business! Adults. RMB 1,100 (member), RMB 1,500 (non-member). Dress code is 1920’s Black Tie 6.30pm-late. Wanda Vista.

British Ball 2018: The Knight’s Tale, Oct 20
This year’s British Ball theme is “The Knight’s Tale”, the first tale from Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales, written in the 14th century. Attendees are highly encouraged to dress in this fashion during the event. Founded in 1998, The British Ball is an annual fundraiser dinner aiming to raise money for worthy causes in the spirit of fun, while celebrating Britishness in Beijing. Adults. RMB 1,550. Dress code: Black tie and ball gown. Visit this page for more details. 6.30pm. Kerry Hotel.

Fairs and Bazaars

Rumble in the Jumble: Happy Endings, Oct 13
Rumble in the Jumble’s October offering is a “Happy Ending” as they say farewell to Rumble’s founder, Helen Bentley. The celebration comes with a party that features vendors from different countries. All ages. Free admission. See this page for details about getting vendor stalls. Noon-6pm. Modernista. (WeChat ID: RumbleBJ, rumble.jumble.bj@gmail.com)

Roundabout Book Fair at Dulwich College Beijing, Oct 13-16
Join Roundabout’s book fair at Dulwich College Beijing. Buy from thousands of donated books and help make a difference to the lives of children supported by Roundabout. The group also needs volunteer support to make these book fairs happen. Email fhm-wob@t-online.de if you would like to volunteer. All ages. Free admission. 10am-3pm. Dulwich College Beijing. (150 1018 7653, chowlilyzhou@yahoo.com)

Lao Beijing Chinese Culture Fair, Oct 14
Join Cultural Keys and the Chaoyangmen Culture Center for a fair celebrating traditional Chinese culture – it’s like all the traditional parts of a temple fair without the crowds! There will be vendors selling products and services inspired by Chinese culture; delicious snacks; traditional folk-craft vendors; and workshops and talks throughout the day. All ages. Free admission but workshops cost RMB 88. 11am-5pm. Chaoyangmen Culture Center. (186 1035 7991, events@culturalkeys.cn)

Feed Your Mind

3e Tea Talk: Becoming Bilingual & Bi-Literate, Oct 10
3e International School’s Tea Talk for October provides parents with a deeper understanding of what it really means for children to become “bilingual and biliterate.” With guided support from parents and school, and effective activities to promote language acquisition, children can reach their full potential towards bilingual and biliterate language fluency. The talk is presented by Gary Bradshaw, Head of School of 3e International School. Adults. Free. 9-10.30am. 3e International School.

Labor Coaching Workshop at Oasis International Hospital, Oct 14
Labor coaching will help you get in tune with your own body and your baby, preparing body and mind for the birth delivery day. At this workshop, participants will explore and practice breathing techniques, basic hypnobirthing, optimal positions, light body exercises focused on hip opening and lower back, meditation and visualization, and natural pain management. Adults. RMB 150. 9am-1pm. OASIS International Hospital.

Free Business Workshop for Student Entrepreneurs, Oct 19
The Queensland University of Technology and BCIS student-led business group Avenir will host a business workshop on October 19 at Beijing City International School (BCIS). The workshop will cover various topics including real-life case studies and problem-solving; building the perfect business plan; looking at finances; and how to pitch a professional solution (including presentation skills). Student entrepreneurs, teachers. Free. 10am-4pm. BCIS Secondary School Library. (ellie.flesher@bcis.cn)

10th China RIE Foundations: Theory and Observation, Oct 29-Nov 2 and Nov 5-7
This rich curriculum is beneficial for both parents and professionals who live or work with infants and toddlers. It is presented in a friendly, informal atmosphere where participants will be encouraged to ask questions and receive guidance. Adults. Contact 159 0125 0981 for more info about the lectures and prices. Green Garden Nursery Beijing.

Camps and Workshops

The SLab’s 3-Day Movie-Making October Holiday Camp, Oct 3-5
The SLab is offering a unique 3-day movie camp, where students will get to discover and recreate the quiescent art of silent film-making. Students will learn to tell a story through actions and composition with little to no use of words. With the guidance of a film professional, they will get to work on writing their own story and script, acting, and filming it themselves. All ages. RMB 1,888 (lunch included). 10am-4pm. See more details here. RSVP: j.pohland@hotmail.com. The SLab. (156 0120 1550)

Little Film Makers, Oct 13
Pingo Space presents a new course for kids aged 7-13. The Little Film Maker course contains hands-on filmmaking and editing projects. Kids will have the chance to design audio, write a script, shoot footage, use editing software and much more! With a focus on film theory and education, this course helps kids learn not only how to create a film, but also pursue a career in the industry. Ages 7-13. RMB 5,980. 10am-noon. Pingo Space.

Improv Movement Workshop, Oct 23
The International School of Beijing in partnership with Shunyifornia, a brand new performing arts center in Shunyi, will host a free hour-long improvisation movement workshop and a contemporary dance performance by award-winning Filipino choreographer, dancer, and theater artist, PJ Rebullida. Explore movement, space, and shape through a fun, interactive and dynamic workshop. Adults. Free. 6.30-8.30pm. Shunyifornia 23 Yu Hua Shunyi (186 1083 0067, hnorthcott@isb.bj.edu.cn)

School Open Days

BIBA Early Childhood Center and Elementary School Open Day, Oct 20
Join Beijing International Bilingual Academy’s (BIBA) Elementary School and Early Childhood Center open day. Take a look at the campus and meet BIBA teachers, principals, parents, and students. Learn all about the school’s international and bilingual education and how exactly they create students in becoming internationally minded bilingual ambassadors. All ages. Free admission but RSVP required. 8.30am-noon. Beijing International Bilingual Academy. (maxiaowei@bibachina.org)

YCIS Beijing Open Day, Oct 23
Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) Co-Principals will introduce the school’s co-leadership and co-teaching model, and parents will learn about the benefits of its bilingual program and teaching methods designed to prepare students for the changes and challenges of their generation. All ages. Free. 9-11am. Yew Chung International School of Beijing. (8585 1836, enquiry@bj.ycef.com)

WAB Open House for Early Years & Kindergarten, Oct 30
Western Academy of Beijing’s (WAB’s) Open House Series is for parents interested in exploring their educational programs and community. Parents will have the chance to meet teachers and administrators, enter classrooms, ask questions, and learn more about their International Baccalaureate PYP program. All ages. Free. 8.30am-noon. Western Academy of Beijing. (WeChat ID: WAB_Chat, 5986 5588, wabinfo@wab.edu)

Harrow Beijing (City Campus) Open Morning, Oct 31
Come and experience Harrow Beijing in action! The school has announced the date of an information morning at their brand-new City Campus. Prospective Early Years parents will have an opportunity to tour the school’s facilities, meet world-class educators, and learn about the Harrow pedagogy. Places are limited so please be sure to reserve a space as soon as possible. All ages. Free admission but RSVP required. 8.30-11.30am. Harrow Beijing City Campus (6444 8100, cityadmissions@harrowbeijing.cn)

Upcoming Events in November

Honk Jr. Musical at ISB, Nov 8-10
Honk Jr. is an award-winning, family-friendly musical based on the classic story of the Ugly Duckling, celebrating what makes each one unique and truly special. Produced and directed by Hannah Northcott and choreographed by PJ Rebullida. Presented by special arrangement with Music Theater International (MTI). All ages. Free admission but RSVP required. Show dates: Nov 8 (4 PM), Nov 9 (6:30 PM), Nov 10 (2:00 PM). International School of Beijing. (Hannah Northcott: 186 1083 0067, hnorthcott@isb.bj.edu.cn)

TNT Britain Macbeth Theatre Performance, Nov 18
One of the most psychologically sophisticated of Shakespeare’s plays, Macbeth weaves a tale of ambition and conscience, following the career of Macbeth, the hero who became a cruel tyrant. It has been presented by the British TNT Troupe across 31 countries. A must-see for drama lovers, this is also a lively tutorial for English learners. All ages. RMB 280 per person but discounted tickets are on sale. 7-10pm. TheArt Drama Centre, Shunyi. (WeChat ID: Rita-8090w, 188 1312 5882, 1692391223@qq.com)

ISB Middle & High School Open House, Nov 29
The International School of Beijing (ISB) invites prospective parents and students of middle school (Grades 6-8) and high school (Grades 9-12) to learn about their curriculum, meet Head of School Patrick Hurworth, learn more about their high school and college guidance programs, and hear first-hand accounts from their student panel. An in-depth presentation from their middle school principal will follow the high school program. Families will also have the opportunity to tour the campus following each divisional discussion. All ages. Free admission but RSVP required. 8.45am-noon. International School of Beijing. (8149 2345 ext. 1047, admission@isb.bj.edu.cn)

Photos: Uni You, The Beijinger; courtesy of event organizers

A Weekend of Dramatic Fun: Plays and Comedy for the Family

Andy Penafuerte III — Mon, 27 Mar 2017 07:00:42 +0000

This weekend seems to be one of the most dramatic — at least in terms of plays! There are three different performances to choose from, especially for families looking for a fun way to start the long holiday weekend.

On Thursday (Mar 30), Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) will stage a livestream performance of Shakespeare’s classic The Tempest by the Royal Shakespeare Company. The Tempest is about the protagonist sorcerer Prospero, who’s robbed of his position, power, and wealth by his enemies. The magician is able to control the very elements and bend nature to his will. So when a sail appears on the horizon, he reaches out across the ocean to the ship which carries the men who wronged him. Creating a vast magical storm, the eponymous tempest, he wrecks the ship and washes his enemies up on the shore. When they wake they find themselves lost on a fantastical island where nothing is as it seems.

The event is part of the new partnership between DCB and Royal Shakespeare Company. The great news is that the play is free to attend!

The Tempest – Livestream Performance at Wodehouse Theatre, Mar 30
All ages. 4-7.45pm. Free. Wodehouse Theatre – Dulwich College Beijing, Legend Garden Campus, 89 Capital Airport Road, Shunyi District.

And then starting on Friday (Mar 31), an operatic comedy will be at the center stage of the Beijing Comedy Theatre. Stage, you read it right, is a hilarious portrayal of a troubled opera company, with more than 20 characters. While the production explores some of the stereotypes and foibles of Peking Opera, it does so with a loving eye. Its last run lasted nearly two years. The whole comedy is in Chinese, so it’s a good way to enhance Chinese language learning for children and adults alike.

Stage Operatic Comedy, Mar 31 – Apr 9
All ages. 7.30-9.30pm (closed Apr 4 and 5). RMB 94-827. Book tickets here. Beijing Comedy Theatre, 11 Chaoyangmen North Avenue, Dongcheng District 北京市东城区朝阳门北大街11号

And on Sunday (Apr 2), Easter will begin early with even more fun courtesy of Minds at Play, as they stage a bilingual family-friendly show plus workshop. The improv show itself is exciting as all the skits the audience will see on stage are improvised.

Bring your kids, bring your grandparents, bring your in-laws, and why not bring that long lost relative you recently found! Minds at Play’s international troupe of actors is performing an Easter-themed, bilingual improv show for the whole family. It gets better, after the show we will have a workshop for kids 6 and older that teaches them how to do the things they just saw on stage. Improv is an exciting style of theater that teaches creativity, teamwork and in the moment connection. Come and enjoy us for a morning of silly, wacky and kid-friendly fun.

MINDS AT PLAY Presents: Easter Improv for the Whole Family, April 2
Adults and kids ages 6+ (Kids workshops for ages 6+) 10.30am-noon. RMB 80 (pre-sale price; scan/extract the QR code below); RMB 100 (at door). Book your tickets here. Please note that children MUST have a ticket to enter. Paper tickets will not be given; after confirming your reservation electronically, you can enter with with your payment confirmation link. All ticket sales are FINAL – no returns and no exchanges. Penghao Theater, 35 Dongmianhua Hutong (Off Nanluoguxiang) 东棉花胡同35号 (近南锣鼓巷）蓬蒿剧场

Featured photo from Ajale via Pixabay. Content photos courtesy of DCB, Stage, and Minds at Play respectively.

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

29 Beijing Events: Improv, Cake, and more!

Annie Wang — Sun, 26 Mar 2017 23:00:49 +0000

Did you know we have a family events WeChat group? Join two hundred other internationally-minded families for the latest information on what’s going on in Beijing. Send an email to editor@beijing-kids.com with your WeChat id or add vanessajencks on WeChat. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are cancelled or scheduled as planned.

Free
MOPS Managing a Mom’s Emotions, Mar 27
Adults. Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) is a place for mothers of young children to connect with other moms, share ideas, be inspired by speakers, and get equipped with resources to help them in their mothering journey. In a small group setting, MOPS will dig deeper into the topics using videos, articles, and discussion time to help turn positive ideas into personal practical application. RSVP at mops@bicf.org. Free. 10am-noon. Beijing International Christian Fellowship.

The Unusual Life of Eleanor Liu, Mar 27
Adults. An interview with 97 year-old American Eleanor Liu who married a Chinese man in Nashville in 1950. Their union is part of Liu’s exciting life, which eventually brought her to China and gave her a front row seat to observe the changes in this country from the 1970s till present. Join the group at the next INN monthly gathering to hear Eleanor Liu tell some of her stories. Free. 10am-noon. The Capital Club Sports Centre.

Women’s Health Seminar, Mar 28
Adults. As it is easy to overlook early telltale signs and symptoms of some diseases, YCIS Beijing has partnered with the Hong Kong International Medical Clinic in Beijing to present a Women’s Health Seminar in honor of Women’s History Month. The seminar will teach attendees how to spot early warning signs through increased awareness, regular self-examinations, and health checkups. Free. 9-10.15am. YCIS Beijing.

The Tempest, Mar 30
All ages. You are invited to the livestream performance of The Tempest, Shakespeare’s story of the betrayal of Prospero; the bookish Duke of Milan who uses magic to try to reclaim what’s his from his brother Antonio. As part of DCB’s new partnership with the Royal Shakespeare Company, DCB proudly presents the livestream performance of this imaginative and enchanting tale. Free. 4-7.45pm. Wodehouse Theatre at DCB.

Unique
Beijing Writer’s Network Meeting, Mar 27
Adults. The Beijing Writer’s Network will meet at Zarah. The theme of the meeting will be Moral Purpose in Fiction. Bring work to share and be prepared to offer and be offered constructive and robust feedback. The meetings bring together creative writers from around Beijing and the working language is English. RMB 20 or RMB 10 (students and reduced income writers). 7.30-9.30pm. Café Zarah.

A Walk and Discussion at the Temple of Heaven, Mar 29
Ages 8+ The walk is led by a native English speaker, a trained historian who has spent over a decade in Beijing teaching and researching Chinese history. The walk will last about two to three hours and we will proceed at a leisurely pace with plenty of time for rest, refreshments, and conversation. RMB 300 (RMB 260 for members of The Hutong). 9-11.30am. Temple of Heaven.

3-Day Great Wall Trek, Mar 29
Ages 7+ This is an epic Great Wall trek that covers 4 fantastic sections of the Great Wall. First the group will hike the amazing Wild Jiankou Great Wall, the Wild Gubeikou Great Wall and finish in style with a trek from to Wild Jinshanling Great Wall, over the restored section of Jinshanling all the way to Simatai Great Wall. Both nights the group will stay at a local farmhouses with view on the Great Wall. RMB 2,800 (10 percent discount for kids 7-18, 20 percent discount for members, 50 percent discount for kids younger than 7). Meet at 9.30am. The Great Wall.

The Emperor & The Lama, Mar 30
Ages 10+ The Hutong will be hosting a walk and discussion at the Lama Temple and Confucian Temple. Join the group and walk among the ancient stone walls where emperors and royalty had once walked. RMB 300 (non-members), RMB 260 (members). 10am-1pm. The Lama Temple.

Gubeikou Great Wall Hike and Chinese Family Style Meal, Mar 30
Ages 9+ Gubeikou Winding Dragon Great Wall is one of the most original parts of the Great Wall for hiking. Viewed from a distance, the Wall is like a giant dragon, curving its path over the mountain peaks. The group will hike for about three hours and will also have a home-cooked meal at a local farmer’s guest house. RMB 500. 8.30am-6pm. China Travellers.

Reading Corner Kick-off Event, Mar 30
Adults. To celebrate the successful installation of a reading corner and exhibition of books provided from Frankfurt Book Fair collections, the German Book Office Beijing of Frankfurt Book Fair and German Centre jointly invite all book lovers for a networking and kick-off event. On exhibition and available for rental will be German literary works, as well as German titles on the subject of “beer culture – books on a German specialty.” Free. 6.30pm. German Centre for Industry and Trade Beijing.

Imperialism, Opium, and Nationalism, Mar 31
Ages 10+ The Old Summer Palace contains the ruins of Yuanmingyuan. Explore its rich history and walk among the Palace’s ruins with the Hutong on this visit through time. RMB 300 (non-members), RMB 260 (members). 10am-1pm. The Old Summer Palace.

Jiankou to Mutianyu Great Wall Hike 1-day, Mar 31
Ages 5+ After the group’s usual local lunch, they will start climbing the sometimes steep slopes on a dirt trail that leads to the Zhengbeilou Watchtower (991m). It is a descent, 500-meter climb that will take about an hour. Your efforts will be rewarded as you will stand on top of the Great Wall tower where some of the most spectacular pictures have been shot. RMB 600 (10 percent discount for kids 7-18, 20 percent discount for members, 50 percent discount for kids younger than 7). 9.30am-7pm. The Great Wall.

My Cake, Mar 31
All ages. Enjoy Daily Treats irresistible cakes with different flavors for CNY 288 for 2 pieces such as Berry lollipop cake, Green tea lollipop cake, Cinnamon lollipop cake in March and Strawberry crepes cake, Green Tea white chocolate crepes cake, Durian crepes cake in April. RMB 288. 7am-9pm. The Westin Beijing Financial Street. (010 6629 7812).

Stage (Comedic Theater), Mar 31 to April 9 (excluding April 4 & 5)
Ages 9+ Stage, an operatic comedy, will be staged at the Beijing Comedy Theatre. It is a hilarious portrayal of a trouble opera company, including more than 20 different characters. While the production explores some of the stereotypes and foibles of Peking Opera, it does so with a loving eye. The language of the production is Chinese. RMB 94-827. 7.30-9.30pm. Beijing Comedy Theatre. (https://www.douban.com/event/28276348/).

Cliff Inscriptions to Jiankou Great Wall Stretch Hiking, April 1
Ages 5+ On this hike we will visit a part of the Great Wall which was built in Ming Dynasty, more than 500 years ago. We will start this hike the Cliff Inscriptions Natural Park, following a relatively easy hillside path to get to the Great Wall. The climb isn’t steep and it will take us about 50 minutes. RMB 450. 8.30am-6pm. The Great Wall.

Second Hutong Food Week, April 1
All ages. This time, the Second Hutong Food Week will last nine days (April 1-9), and there are 18 selected restaurants and bars with more 20 culinary varieties and special deal at each place. There are four parts this time, Food Crawl, Drink Crawl, Collaboration Event, and The Food Court Party as an ending. Prices vary. 10am-10pm. Multiple Locations.

A Walk and Discussion in the Hutongs of Dongcheng, April 1
This walk explores the past, present, and future of the Beijing hutongs. One of the capital’s most distinctive features, the hutongs have long been at the core of Beijing’s urban culture. This walk takes us through the hutongs of the Dongcheng District, once home to some of Beijing’s most fascinating figures. RMB 260 (non-members), RMB 220 (members). 1-4pm. Dongcheng.

Spring Camp by Imagine: Survival Camp, April 1
Ages 7-18. Making fires, building rafts, crossing rivers, making traps and tools, cooking fish, and building shelters – Survival Camp takes you to the great outdoors to learn what nature has to offer. All classes are taught by BSA-qualified (Bushcraft and Survival Association) guides with many years of experience leading survival camps abroad. RMB 650-750. 8am-6pm. Imagine Camp. (WeChat: Imagine24x7Service, 010 57394933).

Kids Writing Workshop, April 1
Ages 6-12. R3 Discovery will host a writing workshop for kids to boost their ability to share their experiences, communicate, and feelings. RMB 2000. 2-4pm. R3 Discovery.

Bricks in the Wall Hike, April 1
Ages 8+ In celebration of QingMing Jie, Beijing Hikers will lead you through roads and hill trails in and around tiny villages northwest of Beijing, making easy climbs on hill trails and a really steep and tough climb on a rather rundown stretch of Great Wall, with fine views the whole way. RMB 380 (non-members), RMB 340 (members). 8am-6pm. The Great Wall.

Hike the Great Wall Spur, April 1
Ages 9+ During QingMing Jie, Beijing Hikers will be visiting a remote stretch of the Great Wall that was completed around 1580 AD, during the reign of Emperor Wan Li. After a good long (some say tough) climb up a hillside trail the group will follow the Great Wall along a ridge, enjoying great views the whole way. There is plenty of Great Wall in this area, and on a clear day it is extremely picturesque. Price includes lunch after the hike. RMB 420 (non-members), RMB 380 (members). 8am-6pm. The Great Wall.

Westin Family Brunch, April 1
All ages. Westin family brunch at Senses highlight the most known Asian street food and beverages from China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Hong Kong and more. Food and beverages are served as a gateway to other cultures, people and places. RMB 568-698. 6am-10pm. The Westin Beijing Financial Street. (010 6629 7810).

Little Pilot Family Fun Adventure, April 1 to 2
Ages 8+ If your children are interested in aircrafts and comfortable with captain or aircrew or such new experiences, then they are probably ready for boarding “Little Pilot” Family Fun Adventures! To explore children’s own ideas and make their own discoveries at LEGO hand-on lesson, DIY aircraft Cookies, airplane model assembling, visit national Aviation Museum and one of the best observation spot around airport Terminal 3, West Lake Park, and fully equipped Kid’s Center to add extra fun! RMB 1,395. All day. Hilton Beijing Capital Airport. To make a reservation: 6450 4747 (weekday) / 15611979131 (weekends and holiday) before Mar 30.

MINDS AT PLAY Presents: Easter Improv for the Whole Family, April 2
Adults and kids ages 6+ (Kids workshops for ages 6+) 10.30am-noon. RMB 80 (pre-sale price; scan/extract the QR code below); RMB 100 (at door) Please note that children MUST have a ticket to enter. Paper tickets will not be given; after confirming your reservation electronically, you can enter with with your payment confirmation link. All ticket sales are FINAL – no returns and no exchanges. Penghao Theater.

Best of Next Week
Spring Break Workshop: Gauguin and Exoticsm, April 3 to 7
Ages 10+ For the upcoming spring break, Atelier Art School has prepared a special workshop both in Sanlitun and Shunyi campuses. Students will discover the French painter Gauguin and his travel to Tahiti. During this workshop we will utilize a book about Gauguin’s experience in Tahiti. From the first contact between the painter and Tahitian culture, to his colorful paintings: learn how to Tahitians built their houses, boats they used to fish. discover exotic landscapes, wildlife and sea-lives. RMB 1800. 10am-noon. Atelier Art School (Shunyi).

Qing Ming Event from That’s Mandarin, April 4
All ages. Qing Ming Festival (清明节), also known as the Tomb Sweeping Day, is a day when Chinese people pay a visit to their ancestors’ tombs and bring offerings. At That’s Mandarin’s Qing Ming event, attendees will learn more about the origin and customs of this festival. And since Qing Ming is almost like a Chinese version of Halloween, participants are welcome to share some ghost stories from their home country. RMB 50. 7-9pm. That’s Mandarin.

Beijing No.55 High School Open House, April 6
Adults. Beijing No. 55 High School will hold an open house for recruitment and admissions to let more parents know about their International Students Section. Staff members will give parents a tour around the campus, answer questions from parents, and give a lecture about the IB curriculum. Parents of new and prospective students are warmly welcomed. To register, parents should send their name and contact information to bj55iss@bj55.cn. Free. 9-11.30am. Beijing No. 55 High School. (6416 9531, 6416 0723).

Beijing Playhouse Kids Summer Theatre Camps, April 8
Ages 6-14. The Beijing Playhouse Kids Summer Theatre Camp is the longest running theatre camp in Beijing. This year, participants, will perform Snow White, Three Musketeers and Alice in Wonderland with acting, song, and dance. Aspiring actors, singers, dancers, and musicians are all welcome. Some English proficiency is required. RMB 9,000 for each two week camp. 9am-4pm. Beijing Playhouse.

Children’s Magic Show, April 9
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/).

What is improv? Why should students learn improv?

Jessica Suotmaa — Thu, 07 Jul 2016 05:06:21 +0000

For our new column, Ask an Educator, we turn to educators, whether teachers, tutors, or principals, to answer frequently asked questions from parents. To send in your question, email jessicasuotmaa@beijing-kids.com.

This week, our question is:

“What is improv? Why is it important for students to learn improv?”

Answering for us is Zeng Cheng, previously an engineer, now the director and founder of Horse Horse Tiger Tiger Troupe.

What is Improv?

Improv is short for the word “improvisation”. Improvisation is the act of making something up as it is performed, usually related to music, dance, and theatre. Improvisation is something we do: musicians improvise, dancers improvise, poets improvise, and even think-tankers improvise without any constraints. The act of improvisation brings freedom of imagination, ways of finding solutions toward problems, and helps students explore and discover more with stronger curiosities.

In improvisational theatre improve is a process; a way of making up things and is not a result we can see. Most students who attend my class are not trying to become professional improvisers; they just want to improve their lives. The skills I teach in improve class are the skills we use in our daily lives.

What is improv class like?

In my improv class, I firstly let students PLAY. Playing is what students like about it, as it happens in our bodies and hearts. If we regard improv as a class studying, we are more serious, and when it gets tougher, it’s more like a job, so we start worrying about it until we get sick of it. Improv playing always keeps us engaged, relaxed, and having fun together.

In improve, there are No Mistakes. Instead, we celebrate mistakes as we focus on the process of making and generating new ideas, thoughts, and inspirations. We do not pursue fixed targets or results, so we have no need to judge. We capture everything and go for quantity, which is the perfect way for spontaneity and brain storming as genius ideas can finally come out when we no longer fear making mistakes.

In improv play, we use Yes And mode to communicate, we offer to each other invitations, and we accept each other’s’ offers. Improv is group mind play where we own one mind with many bodies. By saying “Yes”, we completely accept each other’s ideas so we can build something together. By saying “And”, we welcome students to add more pieces of information and to advance what is going on right here and now. As such, we build a friendly and supportive environment for students who are willing to explore and discover.

Since improv is an art form created in the moment, improvisers have to use “active listening skills” to listen actively in order to participate in the scenario and think on their feet. Improv is a collaborative art form which means we put down our own ego, stop thinking what we are thinking, and start noticing and feeling what others want. Instead of “my ideas”, “your ideas” and “his idea”, they become the first idea, the second idea, and the third idea.

Why is improv so important?

Improv classes have been widely opened in American schools and colleges in an effort to give students the chance to develop their “lizard brains”. The “lizard brain” is in charge of “emotion, feeling, instinct, and imagination”, and by developing them, students are better able to create something out of nothing, feel what others feel, and respond to what others want.

I teach improv classes for kids and teenagers in China, and the more students I have taught, the funnier the student performances have become. Improv has helped so many students open their hearts and minds to embrace challenges, define their own desire, and change their minds from fixed mindsets to growth mindsets. They are able to make a bold choices on their own, go for what they want, collaborate together, and show us what they think and feel.

Photos: courtesy of Zeng Cheng