Skibbutz in China

June 30, 2024

Dreams Deferred: The Struggle of an Eighties Electro Band to Stage a Concert in Shanghai.

In an era of neon, futuristic beats and digital dreams Skibbutz still stands out, encapsulating the electronic zeitgeist of the time. Now their bold plan to stage a groundbreaking concert in Shanghai, already a city of the future, was stopped a bureaucratic blockade that’s become a cautionary tale of cultural diplomacy and regulatory red tape.

In 1984, Skibbutz first announced their intention to perform in Shanghai, a concert planned not only as a music event but also as a bridge to foster artistic exchange between the East and West. Anticipation was high, with fans around the globe eager to witness the event.

But optimism drained away as the labyrinthine process of negotiation with Chinese authorities wore on, concerned with safeguarding national values and public morality. The synthesizer’s futuristic allure was seen by some officials as emblematic of a cultural invasion that could undermine traditional values.

Moreover, logistical challenges compounded the band’s plight. The tech requirements for Skibbutz’ show presented significant hurdles. The necessary equipment, produced in the 1980’s, was nearly impossible to find.

Tensions peaked when the permits remained uncleared a week before the tour began. The band’s manager, in a sombre press conference, lamented the missed opportunity, highlighting the shared excitement and the collaborative efforts that had gone into planning the event. There was no comment from the Chinese Ministry of Culture.

In retrospect the saga of Skibbutz’ unfulfilled Shanghai concert can be seen as a precursor to the cultural thaw that would follow. While their oscillators never shook the Shanghai skyline, their dream resonated beyond borders.