China's National Centre for the Performing Arts, popularly known as "The Egg," celebrated its fifth anniversary on Saturday in Beijing by offering many different high-quality performances free of charge to the public.

More than 500 Chinese artists assembled to present a vast array of performances and exhibitions including operas, dramas, concerts and symphonies.

Chen Ping, President of the centre says they aim to attract more people to come, get to know it, and enjoy it.

One of the members of the audience was Jia Yiqing, a college student in Beijing. She said she was happy with the experience since she got the free tickets online.

"The symphony performance was very good. We were very excited. It was our first time visiting the National Center for the Performing Arts," Jia said.

Since its launch in 2007, "The Egg" has been providing free performances every year on its anniversary, which has proudly become the centre's tradition.

(CRIENGLISH.com December 23, 2012)