Group 1 - The 24th China Shanghai International Arts Festival will take place from October 17 to November 27, featuring over 500 events and more than 1,200 performances and exhibitions, with a focus on "art + " integration to attract artists and audiences globally [1] - Approximately 60% of the main performances are international projects, with over 90% being premieres in Shanghai, including significant productions like the Kunqu opera "Taihe Zhengyin" and a concert by Daniel Harding and the Santa Cecilia Orchestra [1][2] - The festival aims to resonate with contemporary themes, showcasing works that commemorate historical events, such as the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's Anti-Japanese War, and features local productions that tell relatable Chinese stories [2] Group 2 - The festival promotes a "ticket economy" by collaborating with leading internet platforms to offer combined services for performances and tourism, enhancing the overall visitor experience [2] - It connects with other major events like the Import Expo and Shanghai Tourism Festival, using joint ticketing strategies to attract both domestic and international audiences [2] - The festival will also host 60 performances and over 90 events in public spaces, featuring nearly 2,000 artists from more than 30 countries and regions [3] Group 3 - The festival will establish sub-venues in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui, and will host a cultural week for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, emphasizing the festival's regional influence [4] - The festival's president highlights the importance of both high-quality established works and innovative new productions, aiming for genuine audience appreciation [4]

Core Perspective - The article emphasizes the importance of commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's Anti-Japanese War and the World Anti-Fascist War through the re-staging of the play "No Exit," highlighting the need for historical reflection and the exploration of human existence and choices [1][4]. Group 1: Thematic Exploration - The play "No Exit" serves as a profound inquiry into existence, reflecting on the struggles, choices, and transcendence of individuals in extreme circumstances, rooted in existentialist philosophy [2]. - The re-staging aims to deepen the philosophical content and character development while respecting the original work, trusting contemporary audiences' aesthetic and reflective capabilities [2][3]. Group 2: Artistic Innovation - The production incorporates bold explorations in stage language, utilizing a double-layer stage structure and textured materials to visualize philosophical concepts [2]. - Modern adjustments in narrative pacing, music, sound effects, and stage design are made to resonate with contemporary audiences, emphasizing emotional and intellectual engagement rather than mere historical recitation [3]. Group 3: Audience Engagement - The production seeks to evoke empathy and resonance through sincere artistic expression, encouraging audiences to reflect on the themes of life, death, and responsibility [3]. - The ultimate goal is to inspire individuals to recognize their extraordinary capabilities and the importance of pursuing life's meaning, regardless of the era or circumstances [3].