Beijing plans to build 10 new open-air theatres and provide 300 film projectors to communities by 2008, to improve their citizens' access to culture.

Jiang Gongmin, head of Beijing's culture bureau, said that 80 percent of the municipality's 79 theatres are badly equipped and the price of a ticket is too expensive for many citizens.

Authorities hope to remedy the situation by building 10 open-air theatres in Beijing's public entertainment zones.

One such theatre has already been built in Shijingshan District and another will be completed at Yuting Park in Chongwen District by the end of the year.

The open-air theatres will host more free performances.

In a city where the monthly disposable income is only 180 euros, the cost of a cinema ticket, which can cost up to 9.50 euros, is simply too prohibitive for many.