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Punchdrunk's Sleep No More set to close in Shanghai after ten years

  • Writer: Immersive Rumours
    Immersive Rumours
  • May 27
  • 2 min read
A person stands in a narrow corridor bathed in deep red light, arms stretched out against the walls beneath a glowing neon sign with Chinese characters. The dramatic lighting creates a tense, cinematic atmosphere.

Photo: Yuan Studio


Following its opening in Shanghai in 2016, Sleep No More, a co-production between SMG Live and Punchdrunk, quickly established itself as the must-see cultural experience in the city. Following ten years and 2670 performances, the production will close on 30th August 2026.


Having played to over 700,000 people and generated revenues of over 10 billion RMB, Sleep No More not only was the most successful theatrical production in Shanghai’s history but it was also the catalyst for an explosion in immersive cultural events throughout China. Tickets for the final three months of performances will go on sale soon.


Two women in an old-fashioned bathhouse sit on the floor beside a metal basin, illuminated by low, moody lighting. Clawfoot bathtubs, long shadows, and scattered towels create a haunting, theatrical scene.

Photo: Yuan Studio


As one chapter ends, so another begins - as a brand new production of Sleep No More created by the original creative and production team, will open in the Chinese city of Shenzhen in 2027. A partnership between SMG Live, Punchdrunk, Shenzhen Runwen Culture Development Co., Ltd and Shenzhen Media Group - Good Media Co., Ltd, the production will open at Shenzhen Bay MIXC.


This iteration will be an entirely new production that incorporates local culture to deliver a unique immersive experience. This will be the second version of Sleep No More in China, and the only version in China from 2027 onward.


A couple embraces in a dark room lit entirely by saturated red light. One person gently holds the other’s face as they lean toward each other, creating an intimate and suspenseful mood.

Photo: Yuan Studio


This is not the first time Sleep No More has travelled beyond Shanghai – previously, its IP-derived exhibitions toured multiple cities including Shenzhen, Qingdao, and Changsha. The official arrival of the Shenzhen edition marks SMG LIVE’s ambition to bring world-class immersive entertainment to all of China.


Building on ten years of experience, SMG LIVE will continue to empower urban cultural development across China with high-quality cultural, commercial, and tourism IPs originating from Shanghai.


 

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