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The National Grand Theatre in Beijing will open to the public on Dec 22nd, following a 20-day trial performance run.

Officials say the theatre will launch an inaugural performance season after it opens, in which 78 shows will be staged, including operas, pantomimes, concerts, dramas and plays.

Deng Yijiang, vice-president of the theatre, says it will make available low price tickets to ensure the general public also has an opportunity to enjoy the magnificent new venue.

"We will adhere to the people first concept, and will make the ticket price policy comparatively stable."

He adds that the lowest price will be fixed at 30 yuan, or 4 US dollars. During the performance season, one-third of the plays are to be staged by foreign groups.

The National Grand Theatre, which lies to the west of Tiananmen Square, boasts three gigantic halls---a 2,400-seat opera house, a 2,000-seat concert hall and a 1,000-seat theatre.