Technology and Intangible Cultural Heritage Converge to Usher in a New Chapter for Cultural Tourism
[May 15, 2025, Macau] Macau 2049, the residency show jointly created by MGM and acclaimed director Zhang Yimou, celebrated its 100th performance on May 14. Since its debut on December 15, 2024, this audiovisual spectacle—seamlessly blending tradition with technology and culture with innovation—has reached a remarkable milestone in just six months. This achievement not only marks the show's transition into a maturing phase, continually injecting vitality into Macau’s cultural tourism industry, but also highlights the futuristic reinterpretation of China's intangible cultural heritage and the humanized application of cutting-edge technology to global audiences.
To commemorate this milestone, MGM launched a special "Mystery Audience" campaign, attracting thousands of enthusiastic applicants. Selected participants were treated to exclusive behind-the-scenes tours and interactive experiences featuring elements of intangible cultural heritage, gaining deeper insights into the performers' dedication and the modern-day evolution of traditional culture showcased on stage. Additionally, MGM organized a variety of engaging activities for the audiences, including themed photo opportunities, interactive sessions with robots, limited-edition souvenirs, the premiere of a backstage documentary, and a group photo with the full cast. These initiatives offered an immersive and unforgettable cultural celebration for all participants.
MGM has always been committed to supporting Macau’s development as a base for exchange and cooperation where Chinese culture is the mainstream and diverse cultures coexist. Through the groundbreaking stage production of Macau 2049, MGM bridges traditional Chinese culture with cutting-edge global stage technologies, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and sharing China’s rich heritage and stories with audiences worldwide. Since its premiere, Macau 2049 has attracted an international audience, with over 30% coming from overseas—a remarkable testament to its growing global appeal and its ability to ignite international interest in traditional Chinese culture.
Looking ahead, Macau 2049 will continue to grow and innovate through steady performances while advancing content development and exploring broader cross-sector collaborations. Plans are underway to join forces with domestic universities, digital art labs, and cultural institutions to launch the “Future Stage Lab” initiative. This forward-thinking program seeks to discover new ways of demonstrating intangible cultural heritage through technological innovation, further promoting the inheritance and revitalization of Chinese culture while expanding its global reach and influence.
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About MGM
MGM is an abbreviation for MGM China Holdings Limited (HKEx: 2282) and is a leading developer, owner and operator of gaming and lodging resorts in Greater China. We are the holding company of MGM Grand Paradise, SA which holds one of the six gaming concessions to run casino games in Macau. MGM Grand Paradise, SA owns and operates MGM MACAU, the award-winning premium integrated resort located on the Macau Peninsula and MGM COTAI, a contemporary luxury integrated resort in Cotai.
MGM MACAU is a Forbes Five-Star luxury integrated resort inspired by the arts with every element of the resort infused with creativity and style. MGM MACAU has approximately 600 guest rooms and suites and boasts a number of distinguishing features, including the architecturally stunning European-inspired Grande Praça, housed under a soaring glass ceiling. The POLY MGM MUSEUM spanning almost 2,000 square meters, is constructed in accordance with Chinese national standards for the exhibition of Grade-One cultural relics. MGM MACAU’s world class facilities also include conference and event facilities, spa, and seven signature restaurants and bars to fulfill any gastronomic craving. Our property is conveniently located on the Macau Peninsula and is directly connected to the luxury retail shopping complex, One Central.
Designed as the “jewelry box” of Cotai, MGM COTAI offers approximately 1,400 hotel rooms and suites, meeting space, high end spa, retail offerings, food and beverage outlets as well as the first international Mansion at MGM for the ultimate luxury experience. MGM has joined hands with renowned Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou to set up the “Macau 2049” residency in MGM Theater. The Spectacle at MGM COTAI becomes the record holder of the largest free-span gridshell glazed roof (self-supporting) on January 19, 2019, making it the first architectural and structural GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for Macau, China. MGM COTAI is being developed to drive greater product diversification and bring more advanced and innovative forms of entertainment to Macau as it grows as a global tourist destination. MGM COTAI is the only mega complex and hotel in Macau to gain three-star certification in both Green Building Design and Operation Label, as well as the first hotel in the Greater Bay Area and second in Greater China to receive the certifications.
MGM China is majority owned by MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) one of the world's leading global hospitality companies, operating a portfolio of destination resort brands including Bellagio, ARIA, MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay and Park MGM. For more information about MGM Resorts International, visit the Company's website at www.mgmresorts.com.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Jessie Kuan
Executive Director of Public Relations
MGM
Tel: (853) 8806 3412
Email: jessiekuan@mgm.mo
Karen Lam
Senior Corporate Relations Manager
MGM
Tel: (853) 8806 3421
Email: karenlam@mgm.mo
