HOME / LATEST NEWS / Content

When Math Takes the Stage: First Joint Mathematics Drama Performances at SHSID

November 24, 2025


On November 23, the Joint Mathematics Drama Performance, hosted by the Mathematics Education Branch of the Chinese Mathematical Society and co-organized by East China Normal University’s School of Mathematical Sciences, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pure Mathematics and Mathematical Practice, and Shanghai High School International Division (SHSID), was successfully held at SHSID’s Hsi Auditorium. Eight teams from universities and high schools in Shanghai, Suzhou, and Tongxiang came together, bringing iconic figures and ideas from mathematical history to life through drama, delivering a captivating blend of reason and art.



Opening Remarks


SHSID High School Principal Ma Feng delivered the opening remarks at the Joint Mathematics Drama Performance. He warmly welcomed the seven participating teams and expressed gratitude to on-site experts — Prof. Liu Pan, Mr. Zou Jiachen from East China Normal University, Mr. Fang Yaohua from Shanghai Institute of Education, and Ms. Zhang Shan — as well as Prof. Fan Lianghuo from the Chinese Mathematical Society for his video message.


Principal Ma highlighted the unique value of math drama in making mathematics engaging, promoting inter-school collaboration, and fostering students’ interdisciplinary competence, scientific spirit, and cultural confidence. He then officially declared the performance open amid enthusiastic applause.



East Minhang High School - Euler and the Seven Bridges Problem



Chongming Yu’an High School - The Magical World of π


Soochow University - Following the Tracks of Coordinate Geometry


Tongxiang No.3 High School - Thus Spoke Kepler (excerpt)


SHSID - Xu Guangqi and Matteo Ricci: The First Encounter


Shidong Experimental School - Hypatia: Flame of Truth


Shanghai Normal University Affiliated Pudong Lingang High School  - The Story of Prime Numbers


East China Normal University - Song of the Finite Element Method



Sharing Session


The Q&A session energized the hall, as students and teachers stepped forward to share their experiences—from grappling with challenging mathematical ideas and memorizing lines to discovering the excitement of performing on stage. Their central message was clear: taking the first step matters far more than striving for perfection. They also encouraged more schools to participate in math theater and help carry this creative tradition forward.



Guest Speaker Comments


In their remarks, guest experts praised the showcase for advancing the tradition of math theater and enriching mathematics education. Prof. Fan Lianghuo highlighted the event as a meaningful innovation, while Prof. Liu Pan emphasized its ability to connect mathematical knowledge with human insight and inspire younger generations. Mr. Fang Yaohua noted that the performances allowed audiences to feel the “warmth of mathematics,” and Dr. Zou Jiachen underscored the educational value of math theater, which has evolved from its 2012 beginnings into a collaborative platform that helps students appreciate the beauty and spirit of mathematics.




(Written by Hanyue Shi  Pictures by SHSID Volunteers   Reviewed by Ying Gu, Chenli )