Economic downturn affects Beijing's ticket sales

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As the global financial crisis first loomed on the horizon last year, some observers saw opportunities for growth in China's showbiz market. But based on ticket sales for performances in Beijing so far this year pop music concerts seem to be HOT. But classical music concerts are NOT.

In the first half of 2009, the biggest winners have been the star-studded spectacular concerts of pop music, ranging from veteran musicians to rising newcomers.

As many as fifty pop concerts have already been scheduled this year in Beijing. That's twice as many as in previous years -- and a record for Beijing's showbiz market. And the nearly twenty shows so far in 2009 have all been big successes. Organizers are delighted and somewhat surprised.

Gao Qi, concert organizer, said, "Pop music concerts are selling much better than in previous years. The box-office figures are impressive. We never expected such good results."