Founded in 2005 through a joint investment by China Arts and Entertainment Group (CAEG), SMG LIVE, and Shanghai Acrobatic Troupe Co Ltd, Shanghai Era Entertainment Ltd has dedicated two decades to realizing its core vision of showcasing Shanghai to the world. Specializing in the operation of the ERA performance series, the brand has grown from a single resident acrobatic show into a landmark cultural-tourism IP for Shanghai. Its 20-year evolution stands not only as a success story in the performing arts industry but also as a vibrant reflection of Shanghai's open, innovative, and inclusive character and a distinguished case study in international cultural exchange.

Overview of Two Decades of the ERA Series

The development of the ERA series has consistently followed the principle of "Chinese elements, international expression". In 2005, ERA: Intersection of Time, co-created by Chinese and Canadian artists, premiered as Shanghai's first year-round resident show. In July 2021, a creative collaboration with France's Cirque Phenix led to ERA: Spirit of Shanghai, which modernized the narrative and enhanced audience interactivity while preserving the core acrobatic artistry. It continues to enjoy high audience attendance today.

By September 27, 2025, the ERA series had completed 6,471 performances at the Shanghai Circus World, welcoming 6.1 million domestic and international visitors from 73 countries and regions, with a total box office revenue of 810 million yuan (about $116.69 million). These figures attest not only to the project's enduring market appeal but also to its distinctive operational model characterized by long-term sustainability, strong audience loyalty, and broad global reach.

Core Achievements Over 20 Years

Recognized for its dual breakthroughs in cultural and industrial value, the ERA series has earned numerous prestigious accolades, including the National Project for the Distillation of Stage Art, the Ministry of Culture Innovation Award, designation as a national-level cultural industry demonstration base, and the Ministry of Culture Theater Repertoire. The series has also been named among the "Top 30 Cultural Enterprises in China" and honored as a "Shanghai top ten cultural brand" and "Shanghai famous brand". These honors reflect both its artistic excellence and public acclaim, marking its journey from a high-quality production to an industry benchmark.

Brand Influence in the Cultural Tourism Industry

ERA stands as a model for urban cultural-tourism resident performances, achieving deep integration between cultural substance and tourist appeal. As the anchor show at the Shanghai Circus World, it has not only enriched the city's cultural landscape but also become a window for international visitors to "experience Chinese culture and understand Shanghai". Notably, one in every 30 international tourists visiting Shanghai has attended an ERA performance. As a national-level cultural industry demonstration base, it plays a significant pioneering role in shaping and operating cultural-tourism IPs within the industry.

As a locally created IP with international outreach, ERA uses Chinese stories with global resonance as its creative compass, serving as a vital vehicle for Shanghai's cultural exports. Its language-transcending format has made it a must-see attraction for overseas visitors, especially popular among international youth and featured among the top novel experiences most loved by young foreigners. This model of "art as a medium, experience as the core" effectively conveys Chinese cultural confidence while elevating Shanghai's global city profile.

ERA's influence extends beyond its own stage. Through technology export and model replication, it empowers the wider cultural tourism sector, offering fresh approaches for industry players to expand beyond geographical limits.

Over the past 20 years, ERA has grown from a resident performance into a multifaceted brand embodying cultural, industrial, and social value, driven by innovation, market responsiveness, and integrated resources. Its experience demonstrates that successful cultural-tourism products must balance authentic cultural expression with market demand, supported by efficient collaboration and institutional innovation.