The National Theatre of China is a national performing arts institution directly under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China. Founded in Yan’an in 1941, it was officially established in its present form in 2001 through the merger of the China Youth Art Theatre and the Central Experimental Theatre following the founding of the People’s Republic of China. With rich artistic resources and a distinguished theatrical heritage, the Theatre has been shaped by generations of pioneering theatre artists, including OUYANG Yuqian, LIAO Chengzhi, WU Xue, SHU Qiang, JIN Shan, and SUN Weishi, whose contributions laid a solid foundation for its development, inheritance, and innovation.

The National Theatre of China embraces the creative philosophy of “Chinese Originals, World Classics, and Experimental Exploration.” It actively develops both the practice and theory of a distinctly Chinese approach to theatre-making, upholds a people-centred creative ethos, and embraces its cultural responsibility to contribute to China’s theatrical landscape. As a national performing arts institution, it strives to serve as a representative, exemplary, and guiding force in the development of Chinese theatre.

On December 25^th, 2021, marking the 80^th anniversary of its founding and the 20^th anniversary of its establishment as the National Theatre of China, the Theatre received a letter from President XI Jinping addressed to its artists. He encouraged the Theatre to “tell China’s stories with passion and dedication, create more outstanding works worthy of the times and the people, contribute to the flourishing of literature and the arts in the new era, and enrich the spiritual world of the people.”

On July 4^th, 2025, President XI Jinping entrusted officials from the Organization Department of the CPC Central Committee to convey his greetings and encouragement to YOU Benchang, the Theatre’s 92-year-old performing artist, following his admission to the Communist Party of China. His message further inspired the Theatre’s artists and staff to uphold the principle of “excellence in both virtue and artistry,” strive for new heights in the arts, and make greater contributions to building China into a strong socialist country in culture.

The National Theatre of China is committed to creating and presenting high-quality, distinguished theatrical works from China and around the world, past and present. It places a strong emphasis on artistic excellence and talent development, and is home to a large community of theatre directors, actors, and other leading artists. With a pioneering approach to developing new audiences and exploring contemporary forms of expression, the Theatre continues to expand the possibilities of theatre while serving as a home for generations of dedicated theatre practitioners.

The National Theatre of China operates three modern theatres suitable for productions of different styles and scales. Based in Beijing and reaching audiences across the country, it also actively promotes international theatrical exchange and collaboration, bringing the finest achievements of world and Chinese theatre to audiences nationwide.

Leadership:
TIAN Qinxin, President
GONG Baojiang, Party Secretary
BAI Xuefeng, Vice President
CHENG Peng, Vice President

Beijing Tianqiao Shengshi Investment Group Co., Ltd. (“Tianqiao Shengshi Group”) has a registered capital of approximately RMB 4.5 billion, total assets of approximately RMB 5.2 billion, and net assets of approximately RMB 4 billion. It owns four wholly owned subsidiaries and 32 enterprises under its control or authorised management. Directly supervised by the Xicheng District State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission, the Group serves as an integrated platform for the development of cultural undertakings and cultural industries in Xicheng District. It contributes to Beijing’s development as a national cultural centre, the relocation of non-capital functions, and the transformation of the regional economy. Its responsibilities include the integrated management and operation of cultural assets, public cultural services, cultural investment, and cultural brand development and promotion.

The Group’s business activities cover the planning, development, and operation of cultural districts such as the Tianqiao Performing Arts District and the Grand View Garden-themed Cultural District, as well as urban renewal and regeneration projects in Beijing’s historic areas. It also manages cultural and commercial properties; produces performing arts content; operates performance venues and theatre companies; manages cinemas and cinema chains; produces film and television works; develops cultural and creative brands; and undertakes cultural investment. The Group is home to a number of well-known cultural brands and institutions, including the Changdian Temple Fair, Grand View Garden Temple Fair, Huguang Guild Hall, Daguanlou Cinema, Beijing Acrobatic Troupe, Beijing Fenglei Peking Opera Troupe, Beijing Shadow Play Troupe, Grand View Garden, Beijing Tianqiao Art Centre, and Capital Cinema.

Looking ahead, Tianqiao Shengshi Group will continue to deepen its commitment to Xi Jinping’s Thought on Culture, guided by the principles of using culture to inspire, drive development, and enrich the city. It will fully support Xicheng District’s strategy of strengthening the district through culture and continue to play an active role in Beijing’s development as a “City of Performing Arts” and in building the cultural brand “See Great Theatre in Beijing.” Through these efforts, the Group aims to bring forth new achievements and a vibrant new vision for the city’s cultural development.