The Beijing People’s Art Theatre Drama Museum sits on the fourth floor of the Capital Theatre at No. 22 Wangfujing Street, Dongcheng District. This prime spot in Beijing’s bustling Wangfujing area makes it easy to visit—just steps away from the Wangfujing Subway Station (Line 1) or a short walk from Tiananmen East Station (Line 1, Line 5). If you’re exploring the Forbidden City or Wangfujing Snack Street, the museum is a perfect detour.

Cultural Highlights

As China’s first-ever drama museum, the Beijing People’s Art Theatre Drama Museum offers a deep dive into the world of Chinese theater. Spanning 1,360 square meters, its exhibits celebrate the legacy of the Beijing People’s Art Theatre (BPAT), founded in 1952. Explore sections like the Founders’ Hall, where photos and memorabilia honor pioneers like Ouyang Shan尊, and the Play Gallery, showcasing iconic productions such as Teahouse and Thunderstorm. Theater lovers will geek out over 15,000 artifacts, including handwritten scripts, costumes, and personal items from legends like Ye Zi, Zhu Lin, and Ying Ruocheng.

Interactive Experiences

Don’t expect stuffy displays—this museum thrives on engagement. A replica stage lets visitors try their hand at acting, while screens loop behind-the-scenes footage. The “Actor’s Gallery” features lifelike wax figures recreating famous roles, offering selfie opportunities with stars like Zheng Rong. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the “Theater Magic” zone, where interactive exhibits explain lighting, set design, and makeup tricks.

Hidden Gems

Look closely, and you’ll spot quirky details: a wall of theater tickets dating back decades, a “script library” with miniature pages to flip, and even a recreated dressing room complete with wigs and scripts. The museum’s heart? A giant timeline mapping BPAT’s evolution, framed by quotes like, “Drama is the mirror of society.”

Practical Tips

The museum is free to enter (as of 2023; check latest policies), but timed tickets are recommended. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during school holidays. Afterward, catch a show at the adjacent Capital Theatre or grab lunch at Wangfujing’s food street—just tell staff, “Wo qu le Beijing RenYi XiJuGuan!” (I went to the BPAT Drama Museum) for a local touch.

Whether you’re a theater buff or a casual visitor, the Beijing People’s Art Theatre Drama Museum offers a unique peek into China’s cultural soul. As one guidebook puts it: “Here, every prop tells a story, and every spotlight shines on history.”