An Evening of Performances to Wrap Up Your Trip to Beijing

The evening performances in Beijing are not just a type of Peking Opera for tourists. The National Centre for the Performing Arts offers a wide range of operas, music, dance, and theater, while the Tianqiao Arts Centre features musicals and modern performances. Mei Lanfang Grand Theatre, Chang'an Grand Theatre, and Jisheng Grand Theatre host various Peking Opera and traditional art programs depending on the schedule.

This guide gathers actual performance venues from the Capital Theatre to Beijing Arts Centre in Zhengyitailou and Tongzhou. Don't simply expect the same works or foreign language subtitles based on the theater names; check the program, language of the performance, and hall names. Entrance times for tours and evening performances are separate, and the entire evening itinerary includes transportation home after the show.

When choosing a performance, first check the title of the work, the date, the language of the performance, and whether subtitles are available, rather than just the theater name. Peking Operas vary in terms of works, casts, and performance lengths, and the National Centre for the Performing Arts presents completely different performances in multiple halls on the same day. Save the building, hall, and seat information from your e-ticket, and complete security checks and ticket verifications at least 30 minutes before the show starts.

The performance is a result of artistically reinterpreting history and tradition, not an original from its era. After viewing, checking the theater’s explanation or museum materials provides insight into the creative points of the stage. After the show, verify the last subway trains and ride-sharing pickup areas, and don't confuse the Tongzhou Beijing Arts Centre with the downtown National Centre for the Performing Arts. On days with no scheduled performances, just check the exterior and consider switching your evening itinerary.