Beijing residents enjoy plays, concerts as coronavirus threat recedes
CGTN
The outside of Beijing People's Art Theater in Beijing on June 12, 2020. /CFP

The outside of Beijing People's Art Theater in Beijing on June 12, 2020. /CFP

Beijing People's Art Theater, one of the most renowned theaters in the Chinese capital, staged a special show on Sunday afternoon in front of audience for the first time since January 24 when all performance halls closed because of COVID-19.

The performance was a rehearsal before the theater's official reopening, without settings, costumes and makeup. The actors read from scripts they held in their hands as they took to the stage.

One of the almost empty halls of Beijing People's Art Theater with only cameras for livestreaming on June 12, 2020. /CFP

One of the almost empty halls of Beijing People's Art Theater with only cameras for livestreaming on June 12, 2020. /CFP

The rehearsed play was Arthur Miller's "Death of a Salesman," directed by Tang Ye and starring a number of new stage actors.

"It is a very difficult play, but it is also one that can help young actors polish their skills. I hope they can put more attention to the characters and try to embrace them," said Tang.

"Death of a Salesman" has been staged several times at Beijing People's Art Theater. In 1983, Miller himself directed the play, which featured Chinese actors. It has been repeatedly presented since, often as a test for aspiring actors.

People tour the National Center of Performing Arts after it reopened for visitors on July 21, 2020. /CFP

People tour the National Center of Performing Arts after it reopened for visitors on July 21, 2020. /CFP

The rehearsal, broadcast online as well, was a warm-up ahead of the theater's reopening, slated for August. The schedule of performances for the remainder of the year will be released gradually starting next month.

The audience numbers for each performance will be limited to 30 percent of the hall's capacity, and epidemic prevention measures will be in place.

Also over the weekend, the National Center for the Performing Arts already staged its first performances, marking the reopening of the cultural venue. Music enthusiasts were treated to two concerts on Saturday evening, with a limited number of tickets going on sale.

View of the inside of the National Center of Performing Arts after it reopened for visitors on July 21, 2020. /CFP

View of the inside of the National Center of Performing Arts after it reopened for visitors on July 21, 2020. /CFP

Earlier, cinemas across the country got the go-ahead to resume operations from the National Film Administration on July 20. Tour groups were also allowed to travel between provinces.

The reopening of the cultural venues in Beijing was delayed due to a flare-up in COVID-19 infections in mid-June. As of Sunday, the Chinese capital has reported no new case for 21 consecutive days.