Central Academy of Drama, Drama school in Dongcheng District, Beijing, China
The Central Academy of Drama is a drama school in Dongcheng District, Beijing, that trains actors, directors and stage designers, operating across two separate campuses in the capital. The buildings include theatres, rehearsal studios, costume and set workshops, and lecture halls for theoretical subjects.
The institution began in 1938 as part of the Lu Xun Art Academy in Shaanxi Province during the Chinese Civil War. Twelve years later, it moved to Beijing and took on its present name.
Theatre students here practice both Western stage techniques and classical Chinese performance traditions, with costume and set workshops reminding visitors of centuries-old theatre craftsmanship. Public performances occasionally take place, offering a chance to experience the connection between old opera and modern productions.
The main campus sits in central Beijing and is reachable by public transport, while the second location lies somewhat outside the downtown area. Visitors wishing to tour the facility should inquire in advance whether visits are permitted, as it primarily serves teaching purposes.
The academy name comes from calligraphy by Mao Zedong, which he created in the 1950s. The school emblem also carries his design and still hangs at the entrance to the older campus.
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