Shanghai's Grand Theater hosts first concert since renovation

After months of renovation and upgrades, Shanghai's Grand Theater has finally reopened to the public, after being fitted with some state of the art equipment, and climate-friendly technology.

After months of renovation and upgrades, Shanghai's Grand Theater has finally reopened to the public, after being fitted with some state of the art equipment, and climate-friendly technology. Topping the bill on the opening night, a concert by Italy's Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia.

Shanghai's Grand Theatre is now one of the world's most state-of-the-art and environmentally-friendly theaters.

An appropriate venue for one of the world's top orchestras - the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia and conductor Antonio Pappano, who took to the stage, as the theater opened its doors once again.

"We've been looking to upgrade our stage equipment for more than a decade. A large number of international groups come here to perform each year. Now our lighting and sound systems are more stable and advanced, and able to cater for diverse performing styles," said Zhang Xiaoding, general manager of Shanghai Grand Theater.

Away from the technical upgrades, the most obvious change is the expanded public space, just outside the theater.

The opening concert was broadcast live on a 60-square-meter screen, for free.

The multi-venue theater has become a landmark of the city. Opened in 1998, it's staged over 8 thousand performances.

It's hoped the changes will boost Shanghai Grand theater's standing as a high-quality venue for international performers, in all genres.