To some it is a pearl, to others a mistake, according to media reports on the National Grand Theater, renamed National Center for Performing Arts.

When the theater, also called "Eggshell", partially opened to the public on Friday, views were mixed on "its odd shape".

"It's very imposing," said a woman surnamed Huang from Hebei Province, who is visiting Beijing with her sister and 4-year-old nephew.

"Although the building does not match its surroundings, you still want to approach it the moment you see it. I think it would be a nice experience to enjoy a show inside."

Her nephew, Huang Zongshuai, said: "It's as beautiful as Tian'anmen, the Gate of Heavenly Peace."

The mother said their intention was to visit Tian'anmen Square and take a stroll along Chang'an Avenue. But when on Tian'anmen Rostrum, the shining "Eggshell" 500 meters away immediately caught their attention.

Dong Qiwu, a 65-year-old retired worker, on hearing of the theater's opening on the Internet, went equipped with his camera.

"I cannot say it is very beautiful," he said, "but it's special, especially in this community, where most surrounding buildings such as the Forbidden City and the Great Hall of the People are very Chinese."

A retired architect, Huang Yan, said: "The contrast to its surroundings is what makes the theater stand out."

He said he was not too pleased with the design of the building when it was first published and wondered about its popularity. But a visit had cleared up all doubts.

"The design of a building has to stand out, but also has to match its surroundings," Huang said.

"The design is very futuristic and eye-catching compared to neighboring buildings, but the dark-blue glass and the grey titanium faade eases the contrast with the hue of the city. It is a compromise."

Kuba Kazmierczak, a Polish photographer visiting Beijing, agreed.

"The trees separate the old and modern, diminishing the clash," he said, pointing to the greenbelt between the theater and the Great Hall of the People to its east.

"I do like its simplicity; it reminds me of other dynamic buildings such as the Guggenheim Museum in New York."

Michael Geng and his girlfriend work for the national center. They believe a city with so many international cultural exchanges as Beijing needs something new.

"I totally understand the controversy and suspicion," Geng said.

"But it's an international performing arts center where artists from all over the world will gather, so it's acceptable that the design features not only a traditional Chinese flavor, but also Westernized inspirations."