The project aims to attract a broad audience offering traditional and Chinese opera performances, classical concerts and more experimental performances that will attract a younger audience.

Snøhetta has developed the architectural, landscape, interior and graphic design for the Opera, and the project will be undertaken in partnership with Shanghai-based architects ECADI.

The new Opera House is a key part of a new urban masterplan for Shanghai and is expected to become one of the major cultural landmarks of the city. The country’s 13th Five-Year Plan names it as the most important initiative to strengthen Shanghai’s cultural and global influence.