National Centre for the Performing Arts (China)

The National Centre for the Performing Arts in Beijing is a large contemporary performing arts complex located near Tiananmen Square, known for its ellipsoidal dome of steel and titanium set in an artificial lake. The building was designed by French architect Paul Andreu and opened in 2007.

The complex houses three main performance spaces: an opera house, a concert hall and a drama theatre, supporting opera, symphony, ballet, theatre and touring productions. Its exterior and the surrounding reflecting pools are major visual features, and entrances lead visitors down under the plaza level into the foyer areas.

Construction took place in the early 2000s as part of Beijing’s expansion of cultural infrastructure ahead of high-profile international attention.

The centre is situated in central Beijing, within walking distance west of Tiananmen Square and adjacent to major government and cultural buildings.

• Architecture and opening: Designed by French architect Paul Andreu and opened to the public in 2007; commonly nicknamed the "Giant Egg" because of its ellipsoidal titanium-and-glass dome.

What to See #

• Opera House: Opera House - the largest stage space used for full-scale opera and ballet productions with flytowers and backstage support.
• Concert Hall: Concert Hall - a dedicated symphonic auditorium with acoustical design for orchestral and chamber music.
• Theatre: Drama Theatre - a black-box style theatre for plays, dance and smaller-scale productions.