Well, the Granite Studio blog posted an interesting article, giving a link to a photo, which really makes all the difference.

Turns out the current building dates from around the 50's, after the Qing version of the burnt-down Ming theatre was bulldozed along with the city walls. Maybe the replacement will return to its roots.

Certainly the surrounding area needs to come down, but even then, yes it's a bit grotty. I just hope they don't go for one of those ultra-modern styles - they're so tacky.

Turns out the current building dates from around the 50's, after the Qing version of the burnt-down Ming theatre was bulldozed along with the city walls. Maybe the replacement will return to its roots.