A Shanghai Side Quest: Theme Parks, Stage Lights & Way Too Much Bubble Tea

Most people go to Shanghai for business meetings, skyline views, or serious cultural enrichment.

I went… and somehow ended up on stage as an extra actress in a theme park show.

This trip reminded me that life outside work can be just as memorable—and sometimes way more chaotic (in a good way).

Shanghai Romance Park: Where History Meets Maximum Drama
The highlight of my trip was a day at Shanghai Romance Park (上海千古情)—a cultural theme park that’s part history lesson, part Broadway-on-steroids, part "wait, what did I just watch?"

Instead of roller coasters, the park offers vibrant, immersive historical storytelling. I saw everything from large-scale theatrical shows with high production value to beautiful period costumes and artistic talents.

The main attraction is a flagship performance that takes you through different eras of Chinese history using dance, acrobatics, live effects, and emotional storytelling. One moment you’re watching ancient legends unfold, the next moment there’s fire, water, aerial stunts, and at least one scene that gives you goosebumps.

It’s the kind of show where you forget to check your phone—not because you’re being polite, but because there’s too much happening on stage.

Plot Twist: I Ended Up On Stage
Now here’s where things took an unexpected turn.

During one of the interactive segments, the performers asked for volunteers from the audience. Before I could fully process what was happening (or make eye contact with anyone who could stop me), I somehow became one of the extra actresses on stage.

Suddenly, I was wearing a costume and trying to look like I knew what I was doing!

Was I professionally trained? No.

Did I survive? Yes.

Did I gain a new appreciation for performers who make this look effortless? Absolutely.

It was one of those travel moments that you never plan for but end up talking about forever. Also, shoutout to the actual actors who had to seamlessly incorporate confused tourists like me into a polished performance.

Food First, Sightseeing Second
Aside from the accidental acting debut, the most unforgettable part of Shanghai definitely the cuisine.

Every meal felt like a highlight. Think xiao long bao with dangerously hot soup on the inside, noodles that tasted better at 11pm, random local dishes ordered purely based on photos and vibes.

And then there was bubble tea. Let’s just say: One cup a day was not enough.

The sugar levels were chosen bravely (and sometimes regretfully); but I’m still thinking about some of those drinks.

Shanghai takes bubble tea very seriously, and I respected that commitment fully.

Why This Trip Stuck With Me
This Shanghai trip wasn’t about ticking off tourist checklists. Rather, it was about saying yes to unexpected experiences, feasting without an ounce of guilt, and being able to laugh at myself, and with family.

It was a reminder that outside of work, we’re all living our own mini-adventures—some just happen to involve costumes, spotlights, and excessive bubble tea consumption.

So if there’s one takeaway from this trip: travel has a funny way of turning ordinary plans into great stories, especially when you least expect it.
Thanks for reading, and if anyone needs bubble tea recommendations… I have many.

About the Author (Guest Contributor)

Delta Singapore

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