On December 22, the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) will mark its 18th anniversary. Over these years, the NCPA has steadfastly upheld its founding principles of "serving the people, promoting artistry, and embracing internationality," fulfilling its mission as a national cultural platform and setting industry benchmarks, said Zhao Haiying, Vice President of the NCPA.
At a press conference held on December 12, the NCPA showcased its accomplishments: over 15,000 commercial performances featuring renowned artists and ensembles from around the world; 119 original productions that have solidified the "NCPA Production" brand; more than 1,000 annual art education programs bringing stage arts to households; partnerships with nearly 1,000 domestic and international art institutions fostering cultural exchange; and over 1 million visitors annually, making it a true "people's theater" and a "temple of art."
In 2025, the NCPA's "Six Platforms" demonstrated significant impact. Its "One Institution, Three Venues" model hosted around 1,400 performances, including seven new productions like *Red Sorghum*, *Railway Guerrillas*, and *Golden Zhongdu*, showcasing creative vitality. Year-round art education initiatives such as "Weekend Concerts" and "Aesthetic Education Grassroots" were complemented by nearly 40 exhibitions spanning fine arts and sculpture, creating a diverse artistic space.
Internationally, the NCPA leveraged the World Theatre Alliance to successfully host the 2025 World Symphony Forum Beijing and organized overseas tours for its orchestra and choir. The integration of "Art + Technology" yielded remarkable results, with over 320 online broadcasts amassing nearly 7 billion views. The pioneering "Second Venue" initiative livestreamed premium performances to over 100 cinemas nationwide. On December 20, the NCPA’s production of *The Merry Widow* will debut overseas via this model, showcasing China’s artistic and technological prowess.
"2025 marks the conclusion of the 14th Five-Year Plan, during which the NCPA deepened its 'One Institution, Three Venues' framework and maximized the 'Six Platforms.' As a national cultural emblem, we excelled in major diplomatic cultural tasks, bridging nations through art," Zhao noted. "2026, the start of the 15th Five-Year Plan, is pivotal for the NCPA’s new journey. We will uphold 'leadership, heritage, innovation, openness, and inclusivity' to fuel cultural creativity and advance socialist culture."
In 2026, the NCPA aims to pioneer more "debuts, premieres, and firsts," energizing Beijing’s "City of Performing Arts" vision. Original works like *The Swift* will delve into the capital’s heritage, while the "Beijing Capital Trilogy" project continues. Collaborations with global art institutions will deepen, and the 2026 World Theatre Forum Beijing will convene. The NCPA will enhance operational and service excellence, expand grassroots access through digital initiatives like online broadcasts and "Second Venue," and further integrate technology with art.
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