The Wandering Monkey

I have been doing a little more investigation into what could be called the 'entertainment' industry in Shanghai. It seems that in China in general it is policy that foreigners are not allowed to join the entertainment industry. This has been a long-standing policy, which has been relaxed somewhat in the more recent years. It makes sense in many ways, because if the fledgeling China entertainment industry opened its doors to Hollywood, Nashville, and LA it would be overwhelmed.
Foriegn performers need special licenses, but this is not very difficult. But much of the offical performance work is controlled by various agencies, which were former monopolies before the market became more open. They still hold much sway and anything big must be cleared with 'someone' before it happens.
George Gee, of the famous NY-based swing band the George Gee Orchestra, is perhaps an excellent test case. He is a native New Yorker of Cantonese heritage. And he's the most famous swing band in the U.S. East Coast. His band would probably be accepted most readily over here by the various bureaus and officials. And probably the populace as well.
We want now to find native Chinese who we can train into a swing dance troupe. This is going to take some work, but with the help of various foreigners (meaning people like me!) I think we will have an acceptable show ready within a few months. I want to begin with the classic swing-culture line dance, the Shim Sham. It does not require a partner and it is relatively easy to learn. Plus, people from around the world know it. So anyone who learns it can perform it here (which would be brand new to the locals), and they can also participate in it anywhere they go in the world.
Perhaps later, if this works, we will create a more unique performance. But I think this is a perfect start.
Peace,
=J