While the public has been focusing on the new National Grand Theater to the west of the Tian'anmen Square, another theater named after the late Peking Opera master Mei Lanfang is in the spotlight as well. It was opened this Wednesday night in downtown Beijing. Let's follow our reporter Dandan to take a closer look there.

Reporter: Driving along the west second ring road, your eyes will definitely be attracted by the newly built theater decorated with red walls.

With a splendid opening ceremony involving China's most famous Peking Opera artists, the Mei Lanfang Grand Theater has officially opened this Wednesday evening.

The theater is the first of its kind especially designed for Peking Opera performances in the capital. The 3-storied building covers 20,000 square meters and features three levels with 1,035 seats and five VIP chambers. Although designed for Peking Operas, the theater will also open its stage to other types of performances, such as dramas and musicals.

The decoration and design of the theatre blend modernism with traditional Chinese features. At the most eye-catching place in the theater is a bronze statue of Mei Lanfang, who has been known as the great master of China's dramatic art. Zhang Deling, principal of the theater, explains.

"We named the theater after Mr. Mei Lanfang, hoping to continue his career on Peking opera. Mr. Mei enjoys high reputation as the symbol of China's performing art and the pride of his people and nation. We'll give a series of performances that are in line with the high standards of the master."

On the opening ceremony gala, a series of classical arias were given by Peking opera stars such as Geng Qichang, Yu Kuizhi, Li Shengsu and Jiang Qihu. These artists could not hide their excitement performing in the grand theatre.

"The theatre is built with a national standard, we hope to give our audience the best shows at the best theatre."

"In the past, we mainly performed at two Peking Opera theatres in Beijing. Both of them have poor equipments. It is indeed necessary to build such a wonderful theater for Peking Opera. It's the dream of Mr. Mei during his lifetime."

Peking Opera is a synthesis of music, dance, arts and acrobatics. It is known as China's national opera and is widely regarded as a unique expression of the Chinese culture. On the fourth floor of the theatre, an exhibition hall shows various artworks related to Peking Opera such as the costumes and puppets of classical characters.

Wu Jiang, director of China National Peking Opera Company, explains that the theater not only gives performances, but also has the commission to promote the culture of Peking opera.

"The theatre can give performances at the night and exhibit the artworks of Peking Opera during the daytime. We will continue to enrich the exhibits to demonstrate the development of both Peking Opera and the Chinese culture. The theatre should also serve as a museum of Peking opera, especially to make the young generation know more about our national opera."

After visiting the theatre on its premiere, Zhao Youcai, a keen Peking Opera fan, believes the Mei Lanfang Grand Theatre will play an important role in the promotion of Peking Opera.

"The fare of the theatre is not high. We can enjoy both the performances and exhibitions here frequently. I think it will let me better understand the history and essence of Peking opera. I also hope to see more innovative plays at the theatre."

Wang Qinghui, both critic and composer of Peking opera, points out that like other kinds of art whose goal is to entertain the public in the modern society, Peking opera artists must continue to innovate.

"To protect and develop a traditional art, innovation is the key. Master Mei Lanfang is the representative of Peking Opera's innovation. We should continue his step. I hope more new repertoires will be staged at the new theatre."

To celebrate the opening of the theatre, a series of brilliant classicals will be put on stage. Mei Baojiu, Mei Lanfang's youngest son, who is also the most important disciple of the Mei style of acting, will give personal performances at the theatre next month.