Early in the morning, Shanghai’s elderly can be seen in mass heading to Shanghai’s parks and the People’s Square to do morning exercises, often with grandchildren in tow. They can be seen in groups practicing tai chi, performing martial arts, doing local dances, and playing croquette. It is a site that can be seen throughout China. Two traditional pastimes that are unique to Shanghai is the ancient art of Ping tan and Shanghai Opera. Ping tan is a form of storytelling that traditionally has only one performer. The performer sits on the stage with only a couple of props used to emphasize what he is saying, and tells love tales, or tales of the daring exploits of legendary Chinese figures. This is very popular among Shanghai’s elderly men, who often go to the Yuyuan Garden’s Teahouse to enjoy this performing art. Shanghai’s Local Opera is also popular amongst the elderly, and they enjoy watching performances in the evenings. In the evening, many middle aged and elderly people can be seen doing western style dance like the tango and cha cha in the parks well into the evening.

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