Beehive Theater

Introducing Beehive Theatre

The Beijing Beehive Theatre, a new venue specially renovated by Meng Jinghui for the production of "Rhinoceros in Love," serves as a regular venue for the play. Located at 3 Xinzhong Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing, the Beehive Theatre's name alludes to the industrious nature of bees. The Beehive offers a diverse and sophisticated visual experience, seating over 300. The Beehive Theatre is poised to become a landmark for contemporary theater, showcasing not only cutting-edge performances but also a variety of unique stage installations.

In addition to regular performances, the Beehive Theatre also hosts a series of cultural exchange activities, including art exhibitions, rock concerts, drama salons, drama masterclasses, and contemporary poetry readings. A word of caution: tickets for Beehive performances are extremely popular, with many shows selling out as early as two weeks before the show begins. Therefore, those interested in attending a performance must book tickets in advance; tickets purchased at the entrance on the day of the performance are generally not available.

Climate and best time to travel

North temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours

Tickets

Depends on the specific play

Attraction opening hours

It depends on the specific performance of the theater.

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Most Popular FAQs for Beehive Theater

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Beehive Theater is a contemporary arts venue known for its innovative performances, supporting emerging theater groups and experimental artists. It serves as a hub for avant-garde theater in Beijing, contributing to the local and national cultural scene by offering diverse performances that explore new forms of theatrical expression.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Beehive Theater is located in central Beijing, easily accessible by taxi or public transportation. The nearest metro station is about a 10-minute walk away. Taxis are the most convenient way to get there, but buses also run nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Beehive Theater typically opens for performances in the evening, with showtimes usually starting around 7:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the weekend evenings when special performances are held. Weekdays may offer more intimate or experimental shows.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Ticket prices vary depending on the performance, typically ranging from ¥100 to ¥300. Tickets can be purchased online through the theater's official website or at the box office onsite. It's recommended to book tickets in advance for popular shows.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is recommended to book tickets at least 1-2 days in advance, especially for high-demand performances. For popular weekend shows or special events, booking a week in advance is advisable.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully experience a performance, you’ll need around 2 to 3 hours, including time for intermissions and enjoying the theater's unique atmosphere.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main performance hall, known for its excellent acoustics and intimate atmosphere.
• The creative set designs and multi-purpose spaces that support various forms of theater.
• The interactive areas where audiences can engage with the actors or themes of the performance.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are not typically available. However, some performances may offer pre-show talks or interactive sessions where you can learn more about the performance's concept. These sessions are often in Mandarin, with occasional availability in English for international guests.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are from the back rows of the main hall, where you can capture the full stage and performance. Photography during the show is typically prohibited, but you can take photos before or after the performance in the lobby and theater exterior.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the lobby area, where you can view art installations or posters from past performances.
• Head to the main theater for the performance, soaking in the unique architecture.
• After the performance, visit the theater shop or engage with fellow theatergoers in the lounge area.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The Beehive Theater is primarily an evening venue with performances starting around 7:30 PM. There are no specific light shows or night tours, but evening performances offer a distinct atmosphere, often enhanced by creative lighting during the shows.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekends tend to be more crowded, especially during evening performances. Weekday evenings, particularly mid-week, are usually less crowded, offering a more intimate theater experience.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The Beehive Theater has clean and accessible toilets, a small café offering drinks and snacks, and a rest area where visitors can relax before or after the show. There are also small art shops selling theater-related merchandise and prints.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Beehive Theater is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available. It is recommended to check with the venue in advance for specific accessibility needs, especially for children or people with mobility concerns.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted for ticket purchases and at the café. Cash is not commonly required but may be necessary for small purchases at the venue.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• The Beehive Theater has a small café inside offering beverages and snacks.
• Nearby restaurants include casual Chinese eateries, a few Western-style cafés, and international cuisine options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants, though halal food options may be limited to certain areas in Beijing.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels near the Beehive Theater include the Grand Hyatt Beijing and the Beijing Marriott Hotel, both within a 15-minute drive from the venue.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The National Theater and Wangfujing Street are nearby, offering a combination of cultural and shopping experiences.
• The Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are also within a short distance, making them easy to include in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The Beehive Theater has a small souvenir shop offering theater-related memorabilia, including posters, books, and prints of past performances. These make unique gifts for theater lovers.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, taxis or metro stations are the best options to continue your trip. The Beijing metro has multiple lines connecting to various parts of the city, and taxis are readily available outside the venue.