National Theatre of China

Introduction

The National Theatre of China, a national-level drama institution directly administered by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, is located in Beijing. Established in Yan’an in 1941 and relocated to its current address at No. 277 Guang’anmenwai Street, Xicheng district, in 2011, the theatre complex spans 18,200 square meters with a building area of 21,000 square meters. It operates three modern venues: the Grand Theatre, Small Theatre, and Avant-garde Theatre. Dedicated to advancing Chinese performing arts, it serves as a platform for innovative and traditional theatrical productions that reflect Chinese cultural narratives.

Over the years, the theatre has maintained a steadfast commitment to storytelling that reflects China's diverse historical and cultural experiences. It has successfully embraced the principles of innovation and tradition, promoting a vibrant development of drama that aligns with contemporary Chinese narratives. The theatre has been instrumental in fostering artistic growth, providing a platform for creative expression and education in the dramatic arts. Its history is intertwined with China's journey through modernity, serving as a witness to the evolution of the country's cultural and artistic identity.

History

Tracing its origins to the Yan’an Youth Art Theatre founded in 1941, the institution evolved through several key transitions:

April 16, 1949: Established as the China Youth Art Theatre, with Liao Chengzhi as its inaugural director.

1956: Founding of the Central Experimental Theatre.

1966: Merger of the China Youth Art Theatre and Central Experimental Theatre, later consolidated into the China Drama Troupe with the China Children’s Art Theatre.

1978: Restoration of the three theatres as independent entities.

December 25, 2001: Official formation of the National Theatre of China.

Throughout its history, the theatre has championed artistic innovation while preserving China’s theatrical heritage.

Productions & Notable Plays

The theatre’s diverse repertoire includes critically acclaimed productions such as:

The Grand Mansion Gate: A TV drama adaptation chronicling the Bai family’s saga from the late Qing Dynasty to WWII.

The Yellow Storm: Adapted from Lao She’s novel Four Generations Under One Roof, depicting wartime Beijing (performed 300+ times).

Repertoire classics including Romeo and Juliet, To Live, Secret Love in Peach Blossom Land, The Orphan of Zhao, Half a Lifelong Romance, Green Snake, The Dawns Here Are Quiet, Rhinoceros In Love, Jane Eyre, and Red Rose and White Rose. These works leverage advanced staging technology, including the Grand Theatre’s drum-type revolving stage, to enhance narrative depth and visual impact.

Cultural Impact

Through its productions and educational outreach, the theatre promotes artistic literacy and cultural dialogue. It hosts events like the China Original Drama Invitation Exhibition, bridging traditional and contemporary narratives to enrich China’s performing arts landscape.

Address: 8-2 Dongdansantiao, Dongcheng district, Beijing Website: http://www.ntcc.com.cn/ Telephone: (+86-10) 65221009