The 19th China Shanghai International Arts Festival will kick off on Oct 20 at Shanghai Grand Theater. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In addition, 10 exhibitions will be featured during the festival. They include Sound and Image: An Art Exhibition Dedicated to Ludwig van Beethoven and The Beautiful Homeland — "Mentors as well as Friends": the 7th Annual Shanghainese Artists Exhibition.

This year's festival will also highlight China's Belt and Road Initiative. Themed forums and interactive programs will be hosted.