Farrrrrrrk this looks cool! Rainbow Gao, a successful Chinese businesswoman, brainstormed the concept of The Mansion before the venue opening in September 2012. As a hub for artists, musicians, and all open-minded people in Shanghai, The Mansion’s main objective is to help develop the alternative scene of the city, and of China. Located in the Hongqiao area, about 20 minutes away from the city center, The Mansion is a rented villa operating as a free music-themed hostel. Ummm, best hostel ever?! As a main characteristic, The Mansion is an non-profit project, setting it apart from other businesses which put money before music and people. Woot! Music power.

The nitty and gritty: A weekly nighttime party in the basement open to the public is held on Fridays, with a 100RMB (16$) entrance fee including 5 drinks for all guests. The line-ups are formed with the main Shanghai scene Djs, Chinese and foreigners, but also from time to time give a chance to young artists with high potential to perform and get more experience. The house has a free hostel, open to any body interested in the project (pick me, pick me). People can live in the villa for free, in exchange of their work during the weekdays to organize, promote the coming parties and take care of the place (where do I sign up?!).

Okay okay, it sounds a bit strange that about 10 to 15 people are constantly living in the house, (said to create the basis of The Mansion Family community, which is the fundamental part of The Mansion spirit) but that’s kind of, totally awesome. From Djs to members of the free-hostel, The Mansion Family has been growing since the opening with all the people who have been involved.

As a new part of the project, they are now starting to develop a professional studio. Artists have the possibility to rent it for personal use, but the main goal is to invite Djs to record a set in order to create an online platform where people can listen to The Mansion artists, at any time of the day or the night. Get in touch via their Facebook.