Famous comedian to head laughter project

Chen Peisi, one of China's biggest comic stars, has been named as the artistic director of Beijing Comedy Theater, a new theatrical project that aims to get Beijing laughing.

Under the management of the National Center for the Performing Arts, the theater, which was unveiled on May 28, is located in downtown Beijing. It was previously called Oriental Theater.

Xi Tai, or The Stage, a comedy directed by Chen, will open the theater's first season on July 16, with a two-week run.