City Reading@SG 2025: Zhang Hongjie “Zeng Guofan’s Philosophy of Life”

29 Jun 2025

Singtel Waterfront Theatre at Esplanade

1hr 30mins (No Intermission)

Tickets from $10

This event is over.

Synopsis

Zeng Guofan was a key figure in modern Chinese history. Despite his humble background, average talents, and poor health, he rose to great success during one of China's most chaotic periods. His achievements were rooted in his unique life philosophy of “Shang Zhuo”—valuing simplicity and “clumsiness.” This talk explores how Zeng triumphed by being a “fool,” relying on “foolish” people, and doing things the “foolish” way—turning simplicity into strength.

There will be a book-signing session after the talk.

Admission Age

12 and above.

Language

Mandarin

Artist Information

Artists

Date & Time

Time

Venue

Info

Access Needs

Time5:00 PM

VenueSingtel Waterfront Theatre at Esplanade

Info—

Access Needs

Tickets & Prices

Price

$10

Promotions & Packages

Esplanade&Me Specials

Black & White: $5 (Limited to 2 tickets per member)

Applicable to Standard tickets only with valid promo code. Terms and Conditions apply.

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Zaobao VIP

$5 savings

Applicable to Standard tickets only with valid promo code.

Admission Age

12 and above.

Language

Mandarin

Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

What happens when a performance is cancelled or postponed?

When a show is cancelled, ticket buyers will be duly notified by the event organiser primarily via email. You may also be notified through the event organiser's authorised ticketing agent, media or any other applicable communication channels. Information will be provided on where and when you can get your refund. For postponed performances for which the date of the new performance is known, refunds are optional.

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Can I take photos or record a video during a performance?

For indoor performances, photography and video recording are generally not allowed during the show unless stated otherwise by the promoters or artists.

For performances at public spaces, such as those at the Concourse and DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre, photography and casual video recording are generally allowed for personal use. Please be mindful not to use flash, obstruct others, or disrupt the performance. Some programmes may still restrict recording based on artist requirements, so please follow on-site announcements or staff instructions.

Do I have to purchase a ticket for my child

Can I eat or drink during the show?

Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside the venue. It depends on the venue as well. For some shows, you may bring food and drinks purchased at the foyer bars at the Concert Hall or Theatre into the venues. For shows at the Annexe Studio, where there is a bar in the venue, eating or drinking is no issue.

For outdoor programmes, food and drinks are typically allowed unless otherwise stated. However, we encourage audiences to be mindful of the performance environment and dispose of waste responsibly. Restrictions may apply depending on the specific event setup, so please refer to the event listing for details.

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