This is completely ripped from the Beijing Weekender for Nightlife--which is the BEST preview of what's happening around town. plug plug So, here is a preview of the film and stage scene.

FRIDAY

The French Cultural Center always has something interesting going on stage and this week's offering is Triplets of Belleville, which is "the story of a boy, his grandmother, his dog and his dream of winning the Tour de France."

Classical music fans can check out the Opening Concert of The Gate of Art 2008 at the Forbidden City Music Concert Hall. This festival will be presenting performances from around the world as well as Chinese favorites.

If you are up in Haidian, check out the Kataklo Athletic Dance Theatre China Tour at the Peking University Hall. This Italian dance team will demonstrate a "convergence of dance and gymnastic performance, pursuing of strength, sports and passion." All great themes for the ever nearing Olympics.

Meanwhile, down south of Qianmen you can get a taste of real China at Raise The Red Lantern by the National Ballet of China. This ballet is based on Zhang Yimou's award-winning 1991 film of the same name. This particular production is directed by Mr Zhang himself, danced by the National Ballet of China, with music by the Symphony Orchestra of China. Sounds like a don't miss event for any dance lover!

For those of you interested in a a different color, Beijing's ongoing environmental event "Greening the Beige" is having an opening celebration at Yugong Yishan, with performances by Cheeky Monkey Productions and an "Eco Fashion Show."

SATURDAY

If you haven't experienced Peking Opera, you have two opportunities this Saturday: Li Kui Visiting Mother and Burning Pei Yuan Qing and River Side Pavilion both held at the scenic Chang He Yuan.

This weekend continues the encore screenings of the Olympic Documentary: Boomtown Beijing at Salud in Nanlouguxiang (everybody's favorite Houhai hutong).

Greening the Beige continues with an evening of short films and bands along with other events encouraging green living in the Olympic City. Also, you can check out Greening the STAGE sponsored by the environmental outreach campaign of a similar name.

SUNDAY

There's a Sina-Korea Concert, more Peking Opera, Greening the Beige continues with a film festival at Club Obiwan, and of course I have to recommend the greatest movie about a panda who dreams of kung fu still playing in theaters: Kung Fu Panda.

Enjoy your weekend--ON STAGE!!