A range of shows have made their debut at the Shanghai International Arts Festival.

Famous composer, Tan Dun's production is called "A Drip from the Roof." It's currently underway at Shanghai's "Water Music Hall," so we went along to have a look.

The hall's crossbeam and steel poles are the musical instruments. The pool is like one big drum and the waterfall a flute. This bizarre, yet amazing production came from one idea by Tan Dun. It took him three years to mastermind and produce the modern music performance composed of a string quartet, flute and percussion band.

Tan Dun said, "What's on tonight is an exhibition of the concept of the architecture music. It aims to make the music visible while making the architecture heard. So, there upon the river, music is everywhere, including the monks, the river and the crossbeam of the building."

Multi-media musical "The Ark," by Canada's L'Arenal Musique, touches on many popular contemporary topics including environmental protection and bio-diversity. It integrates animation, drama, circus performances and other means of artistic expression.

Original drama "Marco Polo: the Last Mission" produced by Shanghai Ballet and famous couturier Pierre Cardin opened this year's festival.

Original shows like these are on everyday at the Shanghai International Arts Festival. It's attracting large audiences and helping enhance cooperation between Chinese and foreign artists.

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