the Beijinger 7 Days in Beijing: Friday, November 28 to Thursday, December 4

thebeijinger — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 09:00:03 +0800

Today's Alarming Statistic
46.5

The percentage of Beijing's 90,000 sex workers that use condoms

(Xinhua)

Trivia

Congrats to Markus tho Pesch who answered correctly the question: What will be the recommended retail price of the HD Blu-Ray DVDs in Beijing? The correct answer was E: RMB 205 Markus won a voucher from Ispa valued at RMB 500.

This Week's Trivia Challenge

According to regulations set by city authorities, what is the maximum indoor temperature for all public buildings that are using air conditioning systems or equipment for cooling or heating during winter?

Send the correct answer to 7days@thebeijinger.com for a chance to win two tickets to see Kylie Minogue perform at Workers' Gymnasium on Dec 1.

the Beijinger's Bar of the Week

A trio of third-year Beiyu students – a German, a Korean, and a local – have opened a bar in a vaguely eerie lounge-space into the open-air sunken basement of an office building’s cul-de-sac near Wudaokou. “Our concept is simple,” says Hui Jin, the Korean. “We’re a bar opened by students, for students. The alcohol will not be expensive, the music will be good, and the atmosphere will be comfortable.” Opposite the drunken KTV wails of its subterranean neighbor, Plan B sets itself up as an alternative of sorts. “Plan A didn’t work out,” declares Matthias, the German. “That’s why we’re here. This is Plan B, so if you ask for Plan A, it’s not going to work out.” In fact, Plan B offers a drink called Plan A. “You want a nice drink,” explains Matthias, “but what you get is something that’s really sweet, spicy and sour.” Nobody could say I hadn’t been warned. I ordered the drink anyway, confident that I had made a blatantly wrong decision. When the concoction arrived, it tasted (to my relief) more like a root beer gone tragically, grittily wrong than a vile fecal prank. Other drink options include yellow and black German-style draft beer brewed in Daxing County (RMB 20 per mug, RMB 40 per pitcher), tequila shots (RMB 20 for three) and a noble range of student-friendly cocktails (RMB 20-30). With ample space to dance and get rowdy, a good Wi-Fi connection, huge red booths and black-sparkle walls to round out the experience, Plan B has assembled the elements of a dependable, idiosyncratic hangout. Gabriel Monroe

Plan B
Daily 7pm-2am. B/1F, Tsinghua Tongfang Bldg. Square, 1 Wangzhuang Lu, Haidian District (150 1088 5542/131 4132 1744)
海淀区王庄路1号清华同方大厦科技广场

Search for more Beijing bars by name and neighborhood or share your opinions with the rest of Beijing by adding a user review of any of the bars in our online directory of venues.

the Beijinger's Restaurant of the Week

In spite of an awkward location south of Guomao, Le Cafe Igosso has stuck it out for the last five years and won acclaim for both its Italian cuisine and its cheesecake, reputed to be among the best in Beijing. From the same Japanese owner, Igosso – just plain Igosso, that is – refines the original concept with classier decor and a better location at the east side of the Workers’ Stadium. Let’s be clear: If it’s pizza you want, go to Kro’s Nest – there’s no pizza in Igosso. On the other hand, the menu features three pages of spaghetti dishes, with a wide selection of sauces (RMB 48-68), as well as a smaller range of other pasta dishes and mains including steak, stews and duck (RMB 78-160). Live jazz provides some background entertainment on Thursday and Friday nights.

Igosso
Inside east gate of Workers’ Stadium (entrance is to the left of A Hotel), Gongti Donglu, Chaoyang District. (6551 5655)
朝阳区工体东路工人体育场东门内

Search for more Beijing restaurants or share your opinions with the rest of Beijing by adding a user review of any of the restaurants in our online directory of venues.

Best Reader Review

ajgmay reviews Piazza Italia

"We tried going to the "slow food" restaurant today for lunch on the third floor - we asked if they were open and the hostess replied "I don't know." My wife and I looked at each other as if we both just heard a joke we didn't get."

The Beijinger Podcast

Editors from Beijing’s biggest English magazine give you the lowdown on the best events going on in the capital this weekend.

Best of the the Beijinger blog

Rumors that Beijing was going to introduce a cap on car registration or sales have been quashed with an announcement on Wednesday that the city government would do no such thing.

As of next month, new high-speed EMU sleeper trains especially aimed at business travelers offer another tempting option for those looking to head down to Shanghai for the weekend.

The star-studded opening of the Christian Dior and Chinese Artists exhibition had all the glitz, glamor and downright excessive fabulousness you'd expect from the world of haute couture.

North Korea nuts will be pleased to hear that the fun doesn't stop there. Koryo Tours, experts on all things North Korean, are currently holding a Christmas Sale, which may help those those running low on inspiration for Christmas presents.

the Beijinger Classifieds of the Week

Thangkas from Tibet, for Christmas!
Driver and Car for Hire near Sanlitun
Artist or Art Students for Urbane Art Street Project
Find who and what you're looking for in our free classifieds at www.thebeijinger.com

Quotes from the Beijinger forum

“Speak to your landlord and get them to come in with a workman. They have to drill holes into the wall and then push in metal pins which you can hang things from. Any small holes and cracks will form in the walls.”

“I want to try an experiment and I am looking for volunteers”

“Tell them you're a TEFL teacher”

Work for True Run

the Beijinger is looking for interns
Contribute to features, carry out interviews, compile events, and contribute ideas for content. Interns will gain valuable experience working in a dynamic, fast-paced publishing environment and will benefit from the opportunity to be part of a strong editorial team with an established publication. Ideal candidates will have previous experience in journalism/writing, and should be energetic, organized and full of ideas. In-depth knowledge of Beijing and Chinese-language skills are a bonus, but not essential. Candidates of all nationalities are welcome to apply, but candidates require excellent English-speaking and writing skills.
If you're interested, please e-mail your resume to editor@thebeijinger.com.

True Run Media’s beijingkids magazine seeks a full-time or part-time intern to help write and research articles, conduct interviews, blog for our website (now under redesign), contribute ideas for content, and assist with event listings and photo shoots. Ideal candidates will have previous writing or editing experience, a passion for exploring Beijing, and familiarity with the expat family community. Interns will gain valuable experience working in a dynamic, fast-paced publishing environment and will benefit from the opportunity to be part of a strong editorial team. Candidates should have excellent written and spoken English; Chinese language skills are a bonus.
Please send resumes and cover letters to editor@beijing-kids.com.

For more opportunities to join the True Run team, visit our new recruitment page.

Things You Should Know

Beijing got a new Vice-Mayor this week. We don't know what happened to the old one, Ji Lin, but the new guy - a Mr. Huang Wei - is an expert in traffic management and we think that might be just the kind of person Beijing needs.

Some interesting news from the Bird's Nest -The operating company of the landmark Olympic venue has announced a global design competition to produce a mascot for the iconic stadium. Any professional institutes or individuals interested in taking part should not that they're looking for a design with "Chinese cultural characteristics." Deadline is Feb 20, 2009. A prize of RMB 100,000 is being offered to the winning design.

The Bird's Nest will also hold its first big public concert this weekend with a Beijing Charity Gala Ball on Nov 29. The charity concert aims to raise funds for children injured in the Sichuan earthquake. Celebrities including Jackie Chan, Song Zuying and Li Yuchen will perform alongside Olympic and Paralympic champions.

The old subway carriages that use to run along Line 2 before new carriages were introduced in the lead up to the Olympics have been put to good use. The Beijing Subway company has sent them to Sichuan to be used by schools in the quake-affected city of Guangyuan. A total of 60 old DK16 model trains were transported from Beijing to Guangyuan during the past few months and are now being remodeled into student dormitories packed with bunk beds.

The complettion of big office projects in the CBD like the new CCTV Headquarters, BTV and Fortune Plaza Phase II are said to be attracting close to 100,000 new office workers to the already congested area. Aside from traffic concerns, it seems that the demand for nearby accommodation has pushed the rent prices in the area up 20-30% over recent weeks.

Links of the Week

Time's China Blog have put together a nice little 24 hours in Beijing slide show.

China's answer to google, Baidu, was in the news this week after a report on a CCTV current affairs program revealed that that website was engaging in some dubious "money for search results business" with medical companies that didn't have a license - details here. To keep up-to-date with all the latest goings on over at Baidu, visit the very informatiove Baidu News.

After recently adding a blog, Plastered T-shirts now have videos on their site - click here to see the story behind how a Plastered T-shirt is made.

Xinhua have unveiled a new mulit-lingual (including Tibetan) website all about Tibet - called Focus on Tibet.

For dozens of other links to all things Beijing, see our thebeijinger.com links page

Last Week's Events of Note

Two very different DJs were in town this past weekend, both equally eclectic, starting off with Wax Tailor at Yugong Yishan on Friday evening. Accompanying him was a cellist (which pretty much automatically guarantees him points in the “cool” factor), as well as a kick-ass flutist who worked up quite a sweat with her hootin’ and tootin’ (think Miri Ben-Ari on winds). Wax's style was somewhere in-between hip-hop and trip-hop, and his sound likened to DJ Shadow and Portishead; indeed, singer Charlotte Savary had a haunting voice that carried the same echoing quality of Beth Gibbons.

It seemed the entire French-speaking community turned out for this show, who comprised about 90 percent of the audience. The music was not bad, but the vibe just wasn’t quite up to par with the energy of, say, a DJ Shadow at Angel. Overall the mood was rather sleepy. In fact, Monsieur Tailor ended his show at 12.30am or so, stating that he was tired and needed to rest up for Hong Kong the following night. More pics from the event can be found over at the Beijinger online gallery.

Shots from Beijing Boyce

Italian joint Frantoi Celliti has closed at least temporarily after only a few months while Thai restaurant Pink Loft is relocating to the former Revelations / Browns location. Klubb Rouge is switching from pricey cocktails to all-you-can-drink, while next door mega German brew pub Drei Kronen will extend its 2-for-1 special from 5pm to midnight, December 1 to early January. Last but not least, one of the Beijing’s best public wine events, the Hilton Food & Wine Experience, is this Saturday, with hundreds of wines to sample.

For more, visit Beijing Boyce's blog at www.beijingboyce.com or get the latest Beijing Boyce newsletter hot off the press by e-mailing beijingboyce@yahoo.com with "Eat, Drink and Be Merry" in the subject line.

Listen to 7 Days on the Radio

Listen to CRI’s China Drive program from 5-7pm every Friday to hear the pick of the events taking place over the next 7 days. If you want to catch the 7 Days entertainment report as it first goes to air, tune in to CRI at 91.5 FM between 5-7pm on Friday night or click on this link to hear an online broadcast. (May require Windows Media Player).

The Indispensable Immersion Guides

Beijing by Foot

“Beijing By Foot is quite possibly the most illuminating guide to the Chi...”

“From its historic hutong alleys to its skyscraper-studded CBD, there’s never a dull moment on the bustling streets of Beijing—provided you have Eric Abrahamsen’s Beijing by Foot as your guide”

This collection of 40 walks around Beijing will take you through hutongs and high-rises, into the history and stories that still reside amidst the cement and construction. Beijing by Foot has mapped the city like never before. We've walked every hutong and every street, in search of the forgotten gems and hidden details. And now the result is here, presented on stylish, easy-to-carry cards, each of which features a walk on one side and a map on the other, marked with sites of interest and a route, as well as the city’s best restaurants, bars and shops. Readers can also get taste of what to expect over at the Beijing by Foot blog, which features, among other things, photos and reflections on the author's adventures exploring the web of bomb-shelter tunnels 30 meters under Nanluogu Xiang. For more information click here.

The Beijing Taxi Guide

The Beijing Taxi Guide features addresses, descriptions and phone numbers of over 400 of Beijing’s best hotels, eateries, nightclubs, shops, sightseeing spots, hospitals and more – in an attractive, durable booklet that fits in your pocket. For more information, visit the Taxi Guide page.

The Insider's Guide to Beijing 2008

Updated, sassy, and informative: The 2008 edition of the Insider's Guide to Beijing is better than ever and is out now. The new guidebook includes everything you need to know about living in Beijing, from learning which songs will melt hearts in a Beijing karaoke bar, how to take your landlord to court, and where top bartenders go to wet their whistles.
The new edition also comes with a pull-out bilingual map of Beijing and its Olympic venues, so you'll know exactly how agonizingly close the Bird's Nest is when you're stuck in one of Beijing's traffic jams.
See this site for details of which stores stock The Immersion Guides Mandarin Phrasebook, The Excursion Guide and The Insider's Guide to Beijing 2008.

Call our Distribution Manager Zoe Wang at 5820 7101 or e-mail for more details.

Urbanatomy

Urbanatomy Shanghai 2008
Shanghai is opened up as never before in this lavishly illustrated 600-page book. Combining the advantages of a practical guidebook with that of a trusted reference work, Urbanatomy Shanghai 2008 presents a comprehensive portrait of Shanghai by experts from the city and abroad, and from over 25 of Shanghai’s most respected locally based photographers and illustrators.

For more information call Urbanatomy Marketing at 021 5238 5403 or e-mail marketing@urbanatomy.com.

Friday, Nov 28 to Thursday, Dec 4

Aside from Kylie Minogue gracing the Workers' Gymnasium with her presence on Monday (see the sidebar to find out how to win tickets), there are also plenty of other international performers visiting the capital this week. Finnish rockers Moses Hazy take to the stage at both 2 Kolegas and Mao, Dutch DJ Secret Cinema spins at Yen Black, Swedish indie pop musician Jens Lekman along with both DJ Qbert and The Click Five from the US will also perform later in the week.
The tail end of The Sixth Beijing International Theater & Dance Festival throws up some quality shows: the Martha Graham Dance Company, the Best of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and TNT Theater's production of The Canterville Ghost . One of the best community events on Beijing's calendar - the annual German Christmas Charity Bazaar - takes place on Saturday. There's also some interesting films be shown around town with both the North Korean Film Fest and the Documentary: Hovsgol Nuur: Diving in the Land of Chinggis Khan. Finally, Hilton's 11th Food & Wine Experience puts on a grand spread this weekend.

Friday, November 28

» Moses Hazy, Black Cat Bone and Defy
Moses Hazy hail from Finland and play classic rock. They'll be ably supported by raucous blues outfit Black Cat Bone - no doubt still on a high from their album release party last weekend. Defy open. RMB 60, RMB 50 (advance).
9pm. MAO Livehouse (6402 5080)

» Yen Black
Secret Cinema, all the way from the Netherlands, tops a techno-tastic bill including Yang Bing and Mickey Zhang. Wear black to be part of the canvas for the visual artists. RMB 100, RMB 70 (advance), RMB 200 (advance VIP).
9pm. Star Live (6425 5677)

» Yen Black Afterparty
The Yen Black crew takes over for an after-hours audio assault deep underground. RMB 50, free (with Yen Black ticket).
4am. White Rabbit (133 2112 3678)

» Lonely China Day
Hot off their US tour, this Radiohead-influenced Tag Team act gets back to work in Beijing. RMB 40.
9pm. 2 Kolegas (6436 8998)

» Christophe Lier Quartet
Frenchman Christophe Lier usually prefers a trio, but this time invites a fourth - either trombonist Matt Roberts or woodwind man Kenny Liu of Ah-Q Jazz Arkestra. Expect sensitive group interaction and pronounced tongue-in-cheek melodies. Free.
10pm. OT Lounge (6502 5722)

» Confucius Says (Ziyue) and Qiuye
Rock free-for-all. See YGYS site for more details. RMB 80, RMB 60 (advance).
9pm. Yugong Yishan (6404 2711)

» Contemporary Dance: Martha Graham Dance Company China Tour
One of the oldest and most celebrated contemporary dance companies in the US, Martha Graham fills its China premiere with Greek mythology, including the stories of Oedipus and Medea during their Nov 27 show, Myth and Fable. During Nov 29-30, the mood switches to apple pie in American Yearbook, which combines dance styles spanning the '30s to the '90s.Tickets at 6417 7845. RMB 100-800. Until Nov 30.
7.30pm. NCPA Opera House (6655 0000)

ASC Fine Wines
Your holiday gift-giving concierge. Offers fast, free delivery of wine and wine gift boxes to your home or office within 24 hours!
To order, please contact the ASC Wine Specialist at 6587 3808 ext. 600, e-mail homedelivery@asc-wines.com or visit the ASC Fine Wines website.

Saturday, November 29

» BaiCai vs. Syndicate XI
Not a football match but a full-on soundclash between the two local crews. Techno on one floor, drum & bass on the other. RMB 50.
11pm. White Rabbit (133 2112 3678)

» Moses Hazy, Arrows Made of Desire
Finnish band plays with Tag Team Records favorite. RMB 40.
9pm. 2 Kolegas (6436 8998)

» DJ Wordy
China’s DMC champ spins hip-hop, funk and more.
RMB 30.
9pm. Yugong Yishan (6404 2711)

» German Christmas Charity Bazaar
Last year's market raised RMB 420,00. Get along early this year （but don't forget to bring your passport), to raise money for a good cause and also enjoy the glühwein, beer, German snacks and knick-knacks.
10am-6pm. German Embassy (8532 9000)

» GRILA Latin Charity Ball
Join in this tbj-sponsored charity event. Cocktail reception will be followed by dinner, live music and prizes. RMB 800.
7pm. Sofitel Hotel (134 3935 6427, 139 1052 5857)

» Hilton's 11th Food & Wine Experience
Hilton's Food & Wine Experience is back! This time with a plethora of gastronomic events, entertainment, and activities to inspire your appetite. Come for a day of wine, coffee and tea, cheese, and chocolate tastings, seminars, presentations, and much more. RMB 230.
11am-8pm (for trade); 5-8pm (for public). Hilton Hotel (5865 5125)

» Drama: The Canterville Ghost
International touring theater TNT hits Beijing again with Oscar Wilde's hilarious story of horror and romance - a grumpy English ghost who haunts an American family in an ancient castle. In English with Chinese subtitles. Also being performed at Mei Lanfang Theater from Dec 12-14. Tickets at 6551 6906. RMB 60-200.
7pm. Peking University Hall (6275 1278)

» Drama: Low Life
Part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival showcase, this production is inspired by the poems and shorts stories of Charles Bukowski. The show got rave reviews when it was first staged earlier this month, with audiences particularly impressed by the life like puppet at the center of the show. For more information, see the official site. RMB 150, 200.
10.30am, 2.30pm. People's Art Theater (6525 0123)

» The Verse
Catch one of Beijing's best funk bands paired alongside new comers Stellar. RMB 50, RMB 40 (students)
8pm. Star Live (6425 5677)

» The 2008/2009 SAMSUNG ISU World Cup Short Track
For those fans of speed skating and anyone who likes live sport. Tickets available here. RMB 30-90.
1.30pm. Capital Gymnasium (6835 8306)

» Book Talk: Democracy in Europe
Prof. Richard Balme is Academic Director of the Global Public Policy Program in China at Peking University. He'll talk about the current state of democracy in Europe. The talk will be in English with Chinese translation provided. More details here. RMB 20.
3pm. San Wei Bookstore (6601 3204)

» Percussion Ensemble
Percussionist Li Biao teaches at the Central Conservatory and at Berlin's Hans Eisler Academie. In the last few years in China, he has often brought together students and pros to play music purely of and by percussion. The program includes works by Li Biao, Philipp Jungk, Ronni Wenzell, Alex Gloeggler, Claudio Estay and Rudolf Bauer. RMB 30-580.
7.30pm. Forbidden City Concert Hall (6559 8285)

Sunday, November 30

» Dance: Tibetan Riddle (Zang Mi)
Yang Liping, perhaps China's most famous Chinese folk artist, is beloved for her Peacock Dance. In Tibetan Riddle, she depicts with passion and purity the pilgrimage of an old Tibetan woman. Tickets at 6417 7845. RMB 80-1,280.
7.30pm. Poly Theatre (6500 1188 ext 5126/5127)

» North Korean Film Fest
A night of Korean films, featuring documentary The Games of Their Lives and feature film The Schoolgir's Diary. The former tells the amazing story of underdogs North Korea beating the Italian football team in 1966. The latter shows the influx of Westernization through the eyes of a young North Korean girl. See the Beijinger blog for more details. RMB 50, RMB 20 (students).
7pm. Yugong Yishan (6404 2711)

» Micro Mu: Liquid Oxygen Can
Sponsored by Plastered T-Shirts, MicroMu is all about providing another outlet for independent Chinese music. Tonight's show features Liquid Oxygen Can. More details (in Chinese) here. RMB 50, RMB 40 (students).
8pm. Mao Livehouse (6402 5080)

» Drama: The End of Everything Ever
Part of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival showcase,
this truly international production tells the story of the kinderstransport - the mass evacuation during the Nazi Holocaust to Britain of approximately 10,000 German Jewish children in the early years of WWII. For more details, visit the British Council website or piao.com. RMB 150, 200.
7.30pm. Mini Theatre of Beijing People’s Art Theatre (6525 0123)

» Reading Fire
It’s indie and it’s rock, and it includes a free drink. For an idea of what to expect, check out their MySpace or this clip of them performing. RMB 25.
9.30pm. What Bar (133 4112 2757)

» CBA: Shougang Beijing Ducks vs. Liaoning
The Shougang Beijing Ducks haven't had a good start to the season, losing botht their first match against the Xinjiang Flying Tigers and their second to Shandong. The addition of two big name American imports, David Harrison (hey played for the Pacers in the NBA for a while) and Dontae Jones don't seem to have helped the team much. Both players come with questions of whether they'll be able to toe the line - with Jones already running into trouble after getting involved in an altercation with Xi'an fans earlier this year and Harrison one of the players involved in the infamous Pacers/Pistons fans brawl back in 2004 (video here). He was also suspended for 5 games earlier this year for a drug violation. Full season schedule available here in Chinese. RMB 20-80. Nov 30.
7.30pm. Beijing Shougang Basketball Centre (8829 6158)

» 1927-1949 Images of the Republican Period
This photography exhibit brings viewers back to the period between 1927 (when the Northern Expeditionary Army entered Nanjing) and 1949 (when New China was established.)
Daily 9am-5pm. Today Art Museum (5862 1100)

» The Pinnacle Tower
A lesser-known hike that peaks with a view that warrants every step of the tough climb. RMB 300 (includes lunch). Leave 8am sharp from the Starbucks at the Lido Holiday Inn. Beijing Hikers (5829 3195, info@beijinghikers.com)

Other events include a line-up of Shanghai Bands at New Get Lucky.

Monday, December 1

» Kylie Minogue
The Australian Queen of Pop comes to Beijing on the tail of her KylieX2008 Tour. Tickets available here and here. RMB 280-2,580.
8pm. Beijing Workers' Gymnasium (6501 6655)

Prize: For a chance to win 2 free tickets to Kylie Minogue, see this week's trivia challenge at the top of the sidebar. We'll choose the best response on Friday afternoon and contact you then. Tickets won't be available until Monday. Please include a contact number.

» Red Party
Kro’s Nest (Gongti) teams up
with Aizhixing on World AIDS Day to raise money. Wear red, drink red and think red. Free.
7pm. Kro’s Nest (6553 5253)

» Glamorous Pharmacy
Celebrate the album release of this folk band, headlined by local legends Xiao He and Li Tieqiao, with a live performance at Fengchao Theater. RMB 100.
8.30pm. Fengchao Theater (1381 042 9952/1391 004 6577)

» Zhang Weiwei & Guo Long
These members of Wild Children (Ye Haizi) bring you sounds from the Wild West - China's northwest, that is. Free.
8.30pm. Jiangjinjiu Bar (8405 0124)

» Christian Dior and Chinese Artists
This highly innovative project creates a dialogue between two continents and two different means of expression: contemporary art and fashion. More than 20 specially commissioned artworks will be presented alongside the designs which inspired them, as well as emblematic objects from the house's perfumes and accessories. Until Jan 15.
Ullens Center for Contemporary Art (6438 6576)

» European Union Film Festival
Showcasing 22 recent and popular films (one from each participating EU member state), including award-winning comedies, dramas and romances from countries as far-flung as Slovakia, Poland and Italy. The screenings will take place in four locations: the French Cultural Centre, Instituto Cervantes, Istituto Italiano di Cultura and the Ullens Center for Contemporary Art. Each film will be screened in its original language, with English and Chinese subtitles. Free. ID required at certain locations. See here for more info. Dec 1-20.

Tuesday, December 2

» Jens Lekman & Viktor Sjoberg, Arrows Made of Desire
Swedish indie pop musician Jens Lekman is joined by fellow Swede Viktor Sjoberg, with Arrows Made of Desire opening. RMB 60, RMB 50 (advance).
9pm. MAO Livehouse (6402 5080)

» Book Talk: Smoke and Mirrors with Pallavi Aiyar
Discussing her recently released book, the award-winning Hindu Times' Beijing correspondent speaks on her own experiences in China and delves into the intriguing and sometimes uneasy relationship between India and China. RMB 20-30.
7.30pm. The Bookworm (6586 9507)

» Documentary: Hovsgol Nuur: Diving in the Land of Chinggis Khan
The China premiere of a documentary made during a diving expedition to Mongolia’s Lake Hovsgol last year. Expedition leader Steven Schwankert will present the film. A native of New Jersey, Schwankert founded SinoScuba, Beijing's first professional dive operator, in 2003. Since then he has led the exploration of a submerged Ming Dynasty city in a lake in eastern China, and this summer dived an underwater section of the Great Wall. He is currently finishing a book about a groundbreaking underwater discovery made off the Chinese coast, due out next year from Hong Kong University Press. For more details, click here.
7.30pm. International School of Beijing (8149 2345)

» 007: Quantum of Solace
The high-octane adventures of Bond (Daniel Craig) continue. This new mission sees the martini-sipping international man of mystery teaming up with old friends to navigate a minefield of treachery, murder and deceit. View trailer here. For details about screening times see our regular Tuesday film roundup over at the Beijinger blog.

» Hell Boy 2: The Golden Army
Take a look at the surprisingly positive reviews here and trailer here. For details about screening times see our regular Tuesday film roundup over at the Beijinger blog.

» Chinese Contemporary Art Awards 2008
Founded in 1997 by Uli Siggs, CCAA has awarded Liu Wei this year as its pick for "Best Artist" and Tseng Yu-chin as "Best Young Artist" Ai Weiwei has also been given a lifetime achievement award. The works of these three artists will be exhibited at the largest art space in 798. Nov 8-Dec 21.
Ullens Center for Contemporary Art (6438 6576)

Wednesday, December 3

» The XF-Times Project I
Heavy metal and hardcore indie, featuring 614, Last Chance of Youth, The Falling, From Next In, Blackberry Can and Last Successor. RMB 50, RMB 40 (students).
8.30pm. Star Live (6425 5677)

» ISMAT
Xinjiang music meets Flamenco. Free.
9pm. Salud (6402 5086)

» The Pianist
This gut-wrenching Oscar-winning film follows pianist/composer Wladyslaw Szpilman (Adrien Brody) during the years of the Nazi occupation as he eludes deportation, choosing to remain in the devastated Warsaw Ghetto. Directed by Roman Polanski (himself a Holocaust survivor) and shot in Poland, the film is a grim view into the darkest depths of the Holocaust, portraying Szpilman not as a hero but simply as a survivor, emphasizing the role of luck that decided the fate of many of the Nazi's victims. Free popcorn. Free.
8pm. Obiwan (6617 3231)

» A Walk from Auspicious Village
See how the other half live among small dwellings in Huairou. RMB 300 (includes lunch). Leave 8.30am sharp from the Starbucks at the Lido Holiday Inn. Beijing Hikers (5829 3195, info@beijinghikers.com)

» Drama: Design For Living
Presented by avant-garde Hong Kong theater director Edward Lam (Lin Yihua), this drama uses high-class urban tropes of art, architecture, fashion, and dining to explore big city life from a female perspective. Acclaimed Taiwanese actress and director Sylvia Chang will star. In Chinese only. Unitl Dec 7. Tickets at 400 818 3333 or 6406 8888. RMB 100-880.
7.30pm. Poly Theatre (6551 2811 ext 821)

» Shaanxi Symphony
The official orchestra of Shaanxi province makes a rare trip to Beijing. RMB 50-380.
7.30pm. NCPA (6655 0000)

Thursday, December 4

» The Click Five
At first glance, The Click Five seems like a typical boy band. They’ve garnered a large adolescent girl fan base. They’ve even toured with the Backstreet Boys. Look closer, though, and you’ll see that they aren’t exactly completely in sync with the conventional boy band idea. All five members attended the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston (where the band has been based since their formation in 2005). They’ve produced music with KISS rocker Paul Stanley and Fountain of Wayne’s singer Adam Schlesinger. And though their previous two albums were power-pop anthems for giddy, lovesick listeners, their new LP (out sometime next year), should have “more surprises.” Look out for Jessica Pan's interview with their lead guitarist in the December issue of the Beijinger magazine. Tickets can be purchased at www.ticketmaster.cn or by calling 400 707 9999. RMB 200, RMB 500 (VIP).
8pm. Star Live (6425 5677)

Prize: For a chance to win 2 free tickets to The Click Five, send an e-mail to 7days@thebeijinger.com before 2pm on Friday telling us The names of Click Five's previous two albums?. We'll choose a winner on Friday afternoon. Please include a contact number.

» DJ Qbert
That's right, folks! He's back in Beijing for a second time. If you missed out last year, don't sleep on this chance to witness the legendary Invisibl Skratch Pikl, multi-DMC world champion and inventor of the world's first solar-powered turntable, splice and dice it up on the ones and twos. RMB 50.
10pm. Mix (6590 2889)

Prize: For a chance to win 2 free tickets to DJ Qbert at Mix, send an e-mail to 7days@thebeijinger.com before 2pm on Friday telling us When and where did Qbert lat perform in Beijing? Please include a contact number.

» Jess Meider
Album release party for Berklee-graduate jazz singer/guitarist. Free.
10pm. OT Lounge (6585 3406)

» Lecture: Chinese Wellness
Get your pulse diagnosed in a wellness assessment by a TCM doctor. Learn basic TCM theories and how to manage your health in different seasons. Reservations required. RMB 150.
1-3pm. The Yin Yang Community Center (6431 2108, yinyangbeijing@yahoo.com)

» Reservoir Dogs
One of Quentin Tarantino's classic pieces of wit, intrigue, and unnecessary bloodshed, set to what is disputably one of the greatest soundtracks in movie history. Seven strangers, all accomplished criminals, converge to commit what should be a flawless crime. With sterling performances from Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, and Steve Bushemi, this film delivers a full dose of Tarantino's signature clever banter and squirm-worthy bloodshed. Free. 8pm. Club Sandwich (8447 3949)

Upcoming & Ongoing

» Dec 5
Forever Enthralled (梅兰芳 Mei Lanfang)
A biographical account of iconic Peking Opera star Mei Lanfang directed by Chen Kaige and starring Beijing-born singer Leon Lai. Ziyi Zhang stars as Mei’s lover Meng Xiaodong. More info available here. You can look at the "trailer" - it's really just a selection of still images taken from the film set to a Peking Opera sound track - here.

» Dec 5
Sasha
The other half of the once mighty duo Sasha and Digweed hits town. RMB 200, RMB 150 (advance).
10pm. Lan (6552 8180)

Prize: For a chance to win 2 free tickets to Sasha, send an e-mail to 7days@thebeijinger.com before 2pm on Friday telling us What country does Sasha come from? Please include a contact number.

» Dec 5-28
Beijing Playhouse: A Christmas Carol
Beijing Playhouse performs a musical version of Charles Dickens' classic work, A Christmas Carol. Scrooge is taught the true meaning of the holiday by Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit and the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. A cast of 28 actors, singers and dancers will help jump-start your holiday spirit. In English with Chinese subtitles. Call 137 1890 8922 for tickets, or see www.beijingplayhouse.com. RMB 260 (advance), RMB 300 (door), RMB 400 (opening night). Dec 5-28.
7.30pm, 2pm (Sun matinees). Beijing Playhouse (137 1890 8922)

Prize: For a chance to win free tickets to Beijing Playhouse: A Christmas Carol, send an e-mail to 7days@thebeijinger.com before 2pm on Friday telling us When was Charles Dickens short novel first published? Please include a contact number.

» Dec 12
Acupuncture Record Release
Beijing's homegrown electronica label releases its first CD single - EBB, featuring mixes by Terry Tu and ELVIS.T. Price and time TBD. Dec 12.
ChinaDoll (5136 5871/2)

» Dec 13
DJ Babu
The inventor of turntablism turns the tables on the capital. Price and time TBD. Dec 13.
Block 8 (6508 8585)

» Dec 13
Tag Team X’mas Shindig
The Tag Team X-mas Shindig is a real homespun kind of event– a down-to-earth, idealistic, indie kind of family affair. The best part of the party (in its fourth year and counting), is the mulled wine and many varieties of home-baked goods. This year’s line-up includes disco-punk rockers Bigger Bang, the post-rock sounds of RandomK(e), Tag Team labelmates Lonely China Day and Arrows Made of Desire (just back from a US tour), and the Maybe Mars femme fatales of Ourselves Beside Me. DJs Assassin Eyes, Empty Floor and Stinkeye will help to fill in the gaps. This year, 100 percent of all proceeds will go to the bands. As past attendees know, things can get rowdy. RMB 80. Dec 13.
10pm. 2 Kolegas (6436 8998)