Eggshell's birthday party

Several events are being staged to celebrate the first anniversary of one of Beijing's dazzling new landmarks, the National Center for the Performing Arts.

They include a concert given by China National Symphony Orchestra, an opera and the Peking Opera, Red Cliff. Based on the historical battle that inspired John Woo's film of the same name, the six-act Red Cliff boasts an A-list cast and 180 hand-made costumes.

There are also three exhibitions, lectures on art and music, and the opening of the theater's art file center.

Until Monday, the NCPA is also holding open days for the public and free tickets are available online.

NCPA Deputy President Deng Yijiang says the anniversary is not only a celebration. They want the venue to become a brand, a real national-level venue that encourages more people to develop an interest in the arts.

The NCPA has already staged more than 1,000 performances and about 320,000 people have enjoyed more than 800 art and music lectures at the grand theatre.