A reality show to celebrate the Shanghai 2010 World Expo will have an international component in its cast: 20 foreign residents of the city.

"Shanghai Rush," the first TV program in the eastern city to feature mainly foreigners, will have 12 episodes. It will aim to demonstrate the theme of the Expo, which is "Better city, better life," said Li Yi, deputy executive director of the International Channel Shanghai, the host of the show, Monday.

The show has started shooting, with contestants ranging from company employees to housewives.

"It's a special way to support the Expo," said Rodrigo, a Brazilian contestant who has been in Shanghai for 11 months.

The crew will visit different districts, where they will film episodes showing Shanghai's unique scenes and customs.

The show is scheduled to debut on May 3, the one-year countdown to the Expo.

Source: Xinhua