The Peking Opera "Red Cliff" is broadcast on a giant screen at Times Square in New York, March 16, 2009. [Xinhua]

Zuohuang Chen, artistic director of the NCPA, told Xinhua that "no place is more suitable than Times Square, which is considered the 'Cross of the World,' to introduce to the world, Peking Opera, the quintessence of Chinese culture."

"Peking Opera is the most representative traditional art of China and this broadcast is a rare opportunity to witness the virtuosity and precision of China's ancient arts projected above the lights and glitter of Times Square," he added.

Continuing the NCPA's philosophy of fostering the Chinese national arts, Red Cliff is a romantic, sweeping opera famously known throughout China as a timeless Peking Opera classic.

Since its premiere on December 22, 2008, Red Cliff has received critical acclaim as "a diamond on the crown of Peking Opera," with consecutive sold-out performances.

"I don't think many people here understand Peking Opera, but many people have noticed that it is so close to the Western opera and so close to any story telling style that is often applied in music," said Jean Jacques Cesbron, president of Columbia Artists Music, LLC. "I hope this will make more people become curious and become interested in the greatest story that Peking Opera is used."