Theatre Museum of Beijing People’s Art Theatre

The Theatre Museum of Beijing People’s Art Theatre (北京人民艺术剧院戏剧博物馆), located at 22 Wangfujing Street, Beijing, is China’s first-ever theatre museum. The museum officially opened to the public on June 12, 2007.

With a total floor area of 1,360 square meters, the museum houses several key sections, including the Preface Hall, Founders’ Memorial Hall, Play Hall, Academic Hall, Exchange Hall, Theatre and Audience Hall, and the Actor’s Artistic Image Gallery. As of the end of 2022, the museum’s collection includes 76,000 items and it attracts an annual total of 3,048 visitors.

Museum Overview

The Theatre Museum of Beijing People’s Art Theatre is dedicated to the rich history of one of China’s most prestigious theatres. Located on the 4th floor of the Capital Theatre (首都剧场) in Beijing, the museum covers a wide range of functions, including collections, research, and exhibitions. It offers a comprehensive display of the Beijing People’s Art Theatre’s (北京人民艺术剧院) history, key figures, classic plays, and stage designs.

The museum is divided into various exhibition areas, which include items such as rare manuscripts from prominent figures like Guo Moruo (郭沫若), Lao She (老舍), Cao Yu (曹禺), and Shen Congwen (沈从文). It also showcases the artistic achievements of actors like Zhu Lin (朱琳), Yu Shizhi (于是之), and Ying Ruocheng (英若诚).

Key Exhibitions

Preface Hall

As visitors enter the museum, they are greeted by a plaque bearing the inscription written by Ouyang Shanzun (欧阳山尊). The Pre­face Hall features a large photograph of the iconic Chinese play Teahouse (茶馆), which draws many visitors who reminisce about the show’s significance in Chinese theatre.

A small glass box on display holds a bell that was once used by Jiao Juyin (焦菊隐), a renowned director at the time. He used this bell during rehearsals to signal the start and pause of the actors’ performance. In addition, a special wooden floor, which was used in performances at the Capital Theatre from 1984 to 2004, adds to the historical ambience.

Figures Hall

The Figures Hall showcases the lives and works of famous masters of Chinese theatre, including Cao Yu, Jiao Juyin, and Ouyang Shanzun. Important documents, such as Cao Yu’s script for the play Sunrise (日出), are displayed along with personal manuscripts and letters. Jiao Juyin’s works are also featured, highlighting his influential role in the nationalization of Chinese drama.

Visitors can view a collection of significant pieces that reflect the evolution of Chinese theatre, and the room captures the essence of these legendary figures, who laid the foundation for the museum and the theatre’s success.

Play Hall

The Play Hall highlights the Beijing People’s Art Theatre’s 55-year history with displays of iconic costumes, props, and photos from its most notable productions, such as Sunrise (日出), Rickshaw Boy (骆驼祥子), and Cai Wenji (蔡文姬). These plays have become symbols of Chinese theatre and embody a particular era in the country’s artistic landscape.

Director’s notes and actors’ diaries provide a glimpse into the creative processes behind these performances. Famous actors, such as Yu Shizhi (于是之), Ye Zi (叶子), and Luo Shigan (罗世刚), left detailed accounts of their roles, helping future generations understand the artistry behind their performances.

Stage Design Hall

The Stage Design Hall exhibits the creativity of early Beijing People’s Art Theatre artists, particularly in the design and creation of costumes for plays such as The Man with a Gun (带枪的人), which was first staged in 1957. In the early years, the theatre had limited resources, but its staff crafted impressive stage designs and costumes with ingenuity. This included the clever use of inexpensive materials, such as burlap and cotton cloth, which were dyed and made into military uniforms that looked convincing under stage lights.

Special Artifacts

Among the most precious items in the museum is a letter from Premier Zhou Enlai (周恩来), which was sent to Ouyang Shanzun regarding the construction of the Capital Theatre. Zhou Enlai’s endorsement helped establish the first professional drama theatre in Beijing, and the letter is displayed as a testament to the government’s support for the cultural development of Chinese theatre.

Another noteworthy exhibit is Cao Yu’s study (曹禺书房), preserved as it was during his time. His desk, books, and even a lamp are displayed, providing an intimate look into the life and creative process of one of China’s most influential playwrights. Visitors can feel the peaceful atmosphere of his study, where some of his most famous works were conceived.

Visitor Information

Location: 22 Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 4th Floor of Capital Theatre (首都剧场)

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:30 AM to 7:30 PM (Closed on Mondays; last entry by 7:00 PM)

Admission:

• Adults: 5 RMB

• Students: 2 RMB (with valid student ID)

Public Transportation:

• Bus routes: 103, 104, 803, 420, and others (get off at Dianshi Xikou Station).

• Subway: Lines 1, 4 (get off at Wangfujing Station).

The Theatre Museum of Beijing People’s Art Theatre offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and cultural significance of one of China’s most respected theatre institutions. Whether you’re a theatre enthusiast or simply interested in China’s artistic heritage, the museum provides a deep dive into the legacy of Chinese drama.