The Xiqu Centre opens its doors in January 2019

HONG KONG, CHINA – Media
OutReach – 21 January 2019 – The West Kowloon Cultural
District Authority (WKCDA) announced the opening of the first landmark performing arts venue, the Xiqu
Centre, at the West Kowloon Cultural District on 20 January 2019. Conveniently located at the junction of Canton
Road and Austin Road West in Tsim Sha Tsui, the Xiqu Centre is designed to be a
world-class platform for the promotion and development of Cantonese opera and other
genres of xiqu (Chinese traditional theatre).

Its design, inspired by traditional
Chinese lanterns, blends traditional and contemporary elements to reflect the
evolving nature of the art form. Stepping through the main entrance, shaped to
resemble parted stage curtains, visitors are led directly into a lively atrium
with a raised podium and space for a variety of performances and exhibitions. The eight-storey building also houses the Grand Theatre, Tea House
Theatre, Seminar
Hall, eight studios, and a variety of retail,
food and beverage and leisure facilities.

Dr Peter Lam, Chairman
of the Hong Kong Tourism Board said, “Hong Kong offers a mix of new and old
culture, and xiqu, which is on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible
Cultural Heritage of Humanity, plays a pivotal role in heightening Hong Kong’s
destination charm. The opening of the Xiqu Centre will also mark a big leap forward
in establishing Hong Kong as an international arts and cultural hub, expanding
the city’s appeal to a wider audience.”

Following the opening
ceremony, the WKCDA will present the Cantonese opera
classic The Reincarnation of Red Plum, under the curation of Cantonese
opera great Dr Pak Suet-sin. During the Lunar New Year, the Hong Kong Cantonese Opera Chamber of Commerce will host a Spring Festival Showcase. The three-month Opening Season will be concluded in March with a master selection of excerpts from award-winning artists.

At the Tea House Theatre, Cantonese
Opera and Tea, curated by Cantonese opera virtuoso Law Ka-ying, will introduce the art form to audiences new to traditional Chinese theatre, offering an intimate viewing
experience, with traditional tea and dim sum served during the performance.

Along with xiqu performances and the screening of iconic xiqu films, visitors
can join a 60-minute guided tour to explore the
facilities, learn about the architectural and design features, and discover fascinating facts about the rich history of the art of
xiqu.

For details, please
visit  (https://www.westkowloon.hk).