Beijing Comedy Theater launches performing arts season

The Beijing Comedy Theater launched its performing arts season on Sept 26, which will include live performances, concerts, ballet and plays for children.

One of those plays, Tiangong Youth, a futuristic story from the year 2050, will be staged on Oct 14 and 15. Intended to appeal to a young audience, it is about the Tiangong space station, and seeks to inspire children to explore space science and technology.

On Oct 2, Echo of a Childhood Dream, a concert marking the 40th anniversary of the Beijing Philharmonic Choir, will be presided over by Yang Li, who will conduct a children's choir performing classic Chinese songs.

On Oct 7 and 8, Bartok's opera, Bluebeard's Castle, will have its Chinese premiere, with a performance by the London Sinfonietta and the Theater of Sound. Mezzo-soprano Susan Bickley and bass singer Graeme Danby will play the leading roles.

A ballet gala, featuring renowned ballerina Alina Cojocaru and an array of international ballet stars, will be held at the Beijing Comedy Theater in November.

Located in the capital's downtown, the Beijing Comedy Theater will also be opening a new space dedicated to traditional Chinese culture, with displays of intangible cultural heritage items and workshops by their inheritors.