Its nickname is "the Egg," one of the three new Beijing landmarks, along with the Olympic "Bird's Nest" stadium and the new headquarters of China Central Television. It took nine years to construct, but doubts about its design and location linger to this day. In any case, the National Center for the Performing Arts stands today as one of the world's top venues for the performing arts. It is now celebrating its 8th anniversary.

NCPA celebrates 8th anniversary

Naysayers doubted whether French Architect Paul Andreu's futuristic design could fit in with the surroundings. After all, it is just across the road from the lofty facades of Beijing's ancient city. But the NCPA is now a Beijing landmark and one of the world's most prestigious venues for the performing arts.

Since its opening in December 2007, the NCPA has emerged as a leading international venue for top artists and companies from home and abroad. Meanwhile, the NCPA has also staged 59 of its own productions, 18 of them new and original.

More than one billion audience members have come to the Egg, which now mounts almost a thousand performances a year at its three major halls and one mini-theater.

The NCPA marked its eighth anniversary with a concert presented by Chinese composer and conductor Tan Dun.

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)