BEIJING, April 5 (Xinhua) -- "Xiaoju Hutong," a play showcasing Beijing's unique hutong culture, will be staged at the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing between April 11 and 14.

Hutongs are a type of narrow alleys commonly found in northern Chinese cities, especially Beijing.

Debuting in 1985, the play by the Beijing People's Art Theater follows the changing lives over 30 years of five households in an alley called Xiaoju Hutong in Beijing.

There are about 50 characters from different walks of life in the story, including a tram worker, a noodle restauranteur, a petty proprietor and a former prostitute.