'Up Close to Art': China's iconic venue marks 11th anniversary

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02:54

Get ready to get up close and personal with performers and artists! The National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing celebrated its 11th anniversary with an annual Public Open Day. Saturday's one-day special saw the entire venue turning into a stage, filled with a variety of free performances and art events.

'A stage everywhere' at the National Center for the Performing Arts. Over 50 performances, from choruses, Peking opera, chamber music to orchestral music, were staged at all theatres and public spaces in the center - an art feast that could not be missed.

Since 2009, it has been a tradition for the center to offer a series of art performances to viewers on its annual Public Open Day.

ZHAO JIACHEN, DEPUTY DIRECTOR NATIONAL CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS "The highlight of the Public Open Day is that all of the best productions by NCPA over the years will be showcased in this day. The masses can also see our achievements in benefiting and enriching the public's artistic life from our exhibitions, including our efforts to bring more free performances and free art education activities."

While enjoying the performances, visitors can also get up close and personal with performers and artists.

WANG LINNA VISITOR "For me, the Open Day is really a good opportunity to learn more about the center, from all its theaters to artists. I got the chance to talk to them, and they shared their ideas and art experiences."

"Our job today is to showcase the characters of one NCPA production. In this way we hope the audience can get a better understanding about our show, from the costume design to the role set-up."

"Today we also have the chance to get close to audiences, we can sense their passion for art and we are happy to share our experience with them."

Over the past 11 years, the NCPA has presented nearly ten thousand performances, with over 800 art troupes from around the world appearing at the center. As a globally influential art producer, it has also rolled out 87 of its own productions.

The NCPA will also put on other art events to mark its 11th anniversary in the following months, including art exhibitions showcasing the center's achievements over the years.