your guide to what’s on

One of the world’s most unique long-distance races, the International Xi’an City Wall Marathon brings new meaning to running around in circles. In this event, athletes run the 13.7km circumference of the 14th-century Ming Dynasty wall three times before crossing the finishing line.
8–18Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s most popular musical, Cats, is coming to Thailand. Running continuously for over 25 years and watched by more than 65 million fans worldwide, the singing and dancing felines will be on at Bangkok’s Ratchadalai Theatre. www.thaiticketmajor.com
16 onwardsHis painting Saffron Robes and Purple Sky apparently brought a woman to tears. Such is the emotion evoked by Lao artist Thep Thavonsouk’s vivid canvases that depict serene monks and rainy monsoon skies.
See Thep’s work for yourself at his latest 17-piece exhibition at Hong Kong’s Sin Sin Fine Art (1 Prince’s Terrace, Mid-Levels, tel +852 2858-5072, www.sinsinfineart.com)
17–28Don’t miss the third Angkor Photography Festival in Siem Reap. Getting bigger by the year, the event includes displays of works by 60 photographers from Cambodia and beyond. Among the international highlights is award-winning photojournalist Altaf Qadri’s exhibition Faith – a selection of poignant images of Kashmir. www.angkorphotofestival.com
22–25Get into the swing of the Omega Mission Hills World Cup 2007 at Shenzhen’s stunning Mission Hills Golf Club. Twenty-eight duos of different nationalities will battle it out on the green for the incredible US$5 million prize. www.missionhillsgroup.com
26Expect smooth tunes from Japanese jazz saxophonist Sadao Watanabe when he plays at Singapore’s Mosaic Music Festival 2007 at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. With 60 albums and numerous awards to his name, the veteran of Japan’s lively bebop and jazz scene is sure to hit the right note. www.mosaicmusicfestival.com
Watch Thailand make merry as the world’s longest-reigning monarch, His Royal Highness King Bhumibol, celebrates his 80th birthday today. A public appearance by His Majesty on the balcony of Bangkok’s Anant Samakhom Th rone Hall will be followed by spectacular fireworks displays in his honour across Thailand. www.80thbirthdayanniversary.go.th
6–9Ships ahoy! The Royal Phuket Marina is set to fill with yachts and sailing enthusiasts for the 5th Pimex Boat Show. As well as a new 2000sq m exhibition space, including restaurants, clubs and a sports bar, this year’s event will also feature the first-ever Phuket International Dragon Boat Challenge Cup. www.phuketboatshow.com
ChristmasYuletide light-ups are now the norm along Asia’s avenues. Bangkok comes to life with tinsel and trimmings from Maniya Centre to CentralWorld Plaza, while the likes of flying reindeers and giant baubles can be seen on Singapore’s Orchard Road. In Hong Kong (above), the WinterFest turns the CBD into a snowy Santa town, while Hong Kong Disneyland promises a magical season with Mickey and Minnie under the mistletoe.
Until 20 JanFor a dinner show with a difference, book a seat at the Legend of Angkor Wat, an unprecedented experience held on the grounds of the ancient ruins. A colourful live performance will depict Angkor life in the 12th century, while a dazzling light, sound and water show is sure to entertain. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind extravaganza.
www.angkorwatshow.com
OngoingVisit a children’s art exhibition with a conscience at Chiang Mai’s Kao Mai Lanna Resort. Lanna Th rough My Eyes is the theme for the show that hopes to raise enough money to fund five scholarships for school children affected by HIV. Some 20 art pieces will be auctioned for the cause. www.kaomailanna.com
Happy New Year! Join the crowds across the region counting down to 2008. For a celebration with a difference, head to Japan where many locals visit shrines and spend the last moments of the year listening to joya no kane or the ringing of 108 bells. A spiritual alternative to the usual revelry.