Raising the curtain on a historic theater

Tianqiao Theater features grand and elegant architecture. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Established in 1953, the Tianqiao Theater is considered the first to open after the founding of the People's Republic of China. It is located in the southern part of Beijing, neighboring the Temple of Heaven, Beijing Natural History Museum, Xiannongtan Stadium and Liulichang Cultural Street, the National Ballet of China, China Opera and the Dance Drama Theater.

The new Tianqiao was rebuilt in March 2001. Until it remains the only professional theater for opera and ballet in the capital. Its high-level and multi-functional stage, lighting and audio system also meet requirements for dance, drama and orchestral performances.

The theatre comprises four sections: the lobby, auditorium, stage and Swan Lake Hotel. The whole building is under the control of an automatic central air conditioning system and monitoring system. In front of the theatre there is a cultural square covering a 2,000 square meters.

With the advantage of its grand and elegant architecture, magnificent decoration, comfortable VIP lounges and unique box lounges, advanced lighting and audio system and stage machinery, Tianqiao Theatre is known as one of the most luxurious in Beijing.

It is an ideal venue for performing arts troupes from China and all over the world. It aims to become a palace for performing arts, and a window for cultural exchanges.