World class international artists and organizations came together for the Shanghai International Artists Festival 2003, which premiered new works and public events under the theme, "Inspired by China's Cultural Roots". The featured artists included Tan Dun, Lang Lang, Tan Yuanyuan, Doudou Huang, and Hao Jiang Tian, all of whom share a Chinese heritage and embody the fusion of Western experience with their Chinese roots. The program was hosted by the Shanghai Grand Theatre as part of its fifth anniversary celebration, and international organizations including the Committee of 100 Cultural Institute and The Nature Conservancy as well as important Chinese cultural organizations including the Shanghai Conservatory of Music, Shanghai Museum, Shanghai OTV Arts Channel, Hunan TV, Autonomous Minorities Region of Western Hunan and others.

The events included a multi-media concert of "The Map", led by Tan Dun, a piano concert by Lang Lang, a dance program featuring Tan Yuanyuan and Doudou Huang blending ballet and Chinese dance, and three dialogue/demonstrations by music, dance, and opera artists. A folk music performance, a young pianists' community event and a photo exhibit by The Nature Conservancy Organization served as an inspiration to a broad audience of all ages, reinforcing the value of China’s culture as inspiration for contemporary artists.