| The characters in the sign for Guandelou 广德楼 (Guǎngdélóu) theater were written by Qi Gong 启功 (Qǐ Gōng) a famous calligrapher. The theater has diversified its functions to include a tea room and seal carving. The sign at the bottom right says 金石篆刻立等可取 (jīnshízhuàn kèlìděng kěqū) which means that they would be happy to carve a seal for you while you wait.
The theater was built in 1796 to house a Beijing Opera troupe. It was the most popular venue through the Qing Dynasty. In 2001, it was remodeled to include modern stage equipment and safety features. It seats about 200 people. And you can have a seal carved while you wait!
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