The Yiwu Grand Theater's larger than life presence along the Dongyang River is not all for show. MAD Architects aims to create a structure that will be a "monument for the city." Envisioned as an immersive public space for inhabitants and visitors alike, the overall design for the theater will function as a beautiful cultural destination intending on "connecting inhabitants to the waterfront from a new perspective," according to MAD's recent press release. 

The entrancing glass sails are designed to mimic the traditional Chinese junks that filled the waters of the city traditionally known for its trading history. Considered a growing center for international trade and commerce, MAD decided to use the curves from the sails of these ships to express a weightless and transparent design for the theater's canopy. 

According to the design team, "the transparency and lightness of the glass express the texture of thin, silky fabric, creating a dynamic rhythm that makes them appear as if they are blowing in the wind. They act as a protective canopy around the building, resonating with the river, elegantly floating above the water's surface, setting a romantic atmosphere." The semi-transparent glass used will also provide shade and reduce energy consumption as part of the theater's passive solar design. Theater construction is set to begin in 2020.