Lao National Cultural Hall
Sightseeing in Vientiane picture - which opened in March 2000, was constructed with the assistance of Chinese grant money. It stands in front of the National Museum, along Thanon Samsenthai. The hall has 1,500-seat auditorium, two conference rooms, and a lobby that doubles as an art gallery. Since there are no resident artists, the hall relies on performances from visiting artists, sponsored acts, & government conferences to earn its keep. The Hall is a powerful example of Chinese financial clout in this area. The Chinese investment in Laos of more than $700 million in six years has also benefited diverse industries like agriculture & hydroelectric power.