Barbarians at the Gate cover image

Barbarians at the Gate

A Great Leap Backwards?: The Closing of Cultural Spaces and the New Normal in Beijing

Jun 28, 2023
The podcast discusses the shrinking cultural space in Beijing, from crackdowns on stand-up comedy to limitations on foreign musicians. It highlights the disappearance of LGBTQ spaces and the challenges faced by expats. The closure of cultural venues like the Bookworm is examined, alongside the implications for Chinese soft power and academic exchanges. The hosts explore the implications of these changes and the emergence of alternative creative spaces amidst a less welcoming environment for foreigners.
41:04

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Tightening regulations in China are shrinking cultural spaces and stifling artistic expression, impacting LGBTQ communities and academic exchanges.
  • Declining foreign presence in China is driven by infrastructure challenges, growing hostility towards expats, and shifting societal attitudes.

Deep dives

Lifestyles and Concerns Amidst Rising Temperatures

With temperatures in China soaring to record highs, individuals like the podcast hosts are making plans to escape the summer heat. The discussion revolves around the experiences of expats preparing to leave, noting the anticipated extreme temperatures and personal reasons for returning home.

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