Bookbinding Workshop

19.10.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

By learning the basic bookbinding techniques, participants will be able to create their own schedule book decorated with a traditional and exquisite cover inspired by Chinese paper-cutting

SHOWTIME! West Kowloon’s Artistic Strategy for Performing Arts

15.10.2019, Jockey Club Innovation Tower, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Alison M Friedman, West Kowloon’s Acting Executive Director and Artistic Director, Performing Arts shares the artistic vision and strategies for our two major performing arts venues – the Xiqu Centre, a contemporary gateway to the ancient art form of Chinese traditional theatre, and Freespace, Hong Kong’s new centre for contemporary performance

What is Stage: Space as Poetry

01.07.2019 to 27.09.2019, The Box & The Room, Freespace

This September, renowned German stage and costume designer Anna Viebrock joins us for a public seminar and five-day artist workshop on how stage design goes beyond space. In preparation for the workshop, Edward Lam introduces Viebrock’s work with a public talk and series of professional screenings exploring the aesthetics of some of her most important opera and stage productions

The Music of Cantonese Opera

24.09.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

This talk explores the wide range of musical elements used in Cantonese opera, looking at the different vocal styles used for male and female roles, and the use of percussive instruments and rhythmic melodies to enhance mood and narrative

The Stage Movements of Cantonese Opera

10.09.2019 to 17.09.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

In two separate talks, experienced Cantonese opera performers look at how acting, martial arts and dance are combined in Cantonese opera to create patterns of formulaic gesture that contribute to the unfolding of plot and help define character for male and female roles

LED light workshop: Create an Auspicious Cloud

15.09.2019, Atrium, Xiqu Centre

Join a hands-on workshop to create a LED neon light sign in the shape of an auspicious cloud and learn about the use and symbolism of cloud patterns in Chinese traditional theatre

Paper Lantern-crafting Workshop

14.09.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

In this hands-on workshop, local paper-crafting master Au Yeung Ping-chi guides participants to make an auspicious traditional bottle-shaped lantern from bamboo splints and strips of coloured paper and rice paper

Seminar: The Innovation and Conservation of Cantonese Opera

07.09.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

The seminar scheduled on 7 September 2019 (Saturday) is cancelled. Programme Enquiries: (852) 2200 0441

Make Your Own Xiqu-inspired Pencil Case

18.08.2019, Atrium, Xiqu Centre

Join a hands-on workshop and make your own wooden pencil case inspired by the wooden storage trunks used by xiqu troupes and learn more about life backstage at a Cantonese opera performance

Work-in-progress: Every Time You Walk into Our Class

06.08.2019 to 18.08.2019, The Room, Freespace

This August, Edward Lam Dance Theatre presents their first work-in-progress series in which Taiwanese actor Shih Yi-hsiu and a small audience of 60 people interact to shape both content and performance. Blending workshop and presentation, Shih Yi-hsiu revisits the role of teacher, this time with the audience as his students

Cantonese Opera Makeup Workshop

17.08.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

In this two-hour artist-led workshop, participants learn about the face-painting process used for lead female and male roles and how to apply a basic Cantonese opera makeup

Cantonese Opera and Kunqu: Major Works

03.08.2019, Seminar Hall & Studio, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, Chinese opera scholar Chan Chun-miu uses audio and video demonstrations to illustrate and compare the literary styles of a selection of Kunqu and Cantonese opera works with similar themes

Chinese Culture Talk Series III

26.06.2019 to 31.07.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Throughout history, tea and incense have played an important part in traditional Chinese culture. This series of talks looks at the historic and contemporary cultural uses of incense and tea, and explores their aesthetic and ritual significance

The Heartless Men of Cantonese Opera

25.06.2019 to 23.07.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

In this series of two talks, theatre practitioner and critic Dr Cheung Ping-kuen examines the psychological and emotional journeys of some of Cantonese opera’s iconic “heartless men”, looking at the motivation behind their behaviour, and exploring the relevance of these characters for modern day audiences

Make Your Own Xiqu-inspired Badge Holder

21.07.2019, Atrium, Xiqu Centre

Decorate a badge holder with a fun image of one of the four main roles in Chinese traditional theatre – male, female, painted face and comic – and learn fun facts about this traditional performing art at the same time

Mini Flower Plaque Workshop

20.07.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

Learn about the history and art of one of Hong Kong’s intangible cultural heritage crafts and create your own mini flower plaque in a two-hour artist-led workshop

Cantopop and Local Indie Music in the Digital Era

16.07.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, Stella Lau, former Programme Director in Performing Arts at HKU SPACE, explores the Hong Kong recording industry, the evolution of Cantopop, the characteristics of mainstream and indie music and the challenges and opportunities that the digital era has opened up for local pop music culture

Screendance School Programme

The Screendance School Programme connects artists and secondary school students to explore the synergy of dance and cinematography through talks and interactive workshops

Kunqu: Portrayals of Human Nature

06.07.2019, Seminar Hall & Studio, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, Chinese opera scholar Chan Chun-miu looks at the development of Kunqu productions over time, and explores how stories of life and human nature have become central themes for the genre

Victor Fung in Residence – From The Top (Final Edit)

29.06.2019, The Room, Freespace

This work-in-progress presentation explores the interdependence of choreographers and dancers and offers a witty and beguiling take on the everyday life of dance artists and what it means to make art

Seminar on the Culture of Ritual Opera Performance

23.06.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Through four expert talks, this seminar explores regional and ethnic variations in the genre, style and practice of ritual opera culture in Hong Kong, Guangdong, Chaoshan and Hailufeng

The Face Painting, Costumes and Props of Kunqu

22.06.2019, Seminar Hall & Studio, Xiqu Centre

Exploring the makeup and costumes of different role-types and characters, Chinese opera scholar Chan Chun-miu looks at how stage presentation lends richness and meaning to Kunqu performances

The History of Hong Kong Indie Music: 1980s–2010s

18.06.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, Stella Lau, former Programme Director in Performing Arts at HKU SPACE, looks at the development of indie music in Hong Kong from the 1980s to the 2010s in relation to social development and post-handover culture in Hong Kong

Chinese Fan Painting and Movement Workshop

16.06.2019, Atrium, Xiqu Centre

In this free family workshop, Cantonese opera artist Xie Xiaoyu, and facilitator Vivian Ng and Ava Yau, show you how to decorate a flat fan with an image of a Chinese opera character and demonstrate how fans are used by performers in dan (female) roles

Wearable Xiqu-inspired Jewellery Workshop – Imitation Kingfisher Feather Brooch

15.06.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

Join a hands-on workshop and learn how to process and use ribbon to imitate the effect of kingfisher feathers, and design and create your own individual brooch

Choreographic Landscapes

07.06.2019 to 12.06.2019, The Room, Freespace

French choreographer Christian Rizzo joins us to lead a five-day professional workshop for dancers and visual artists on choreographic compositions and the relationship between movement, performance and space. The collaboration opens with a public discussion on his work and the importance of emptiness as a space for imagination

The Face Painting and Costumes of Cantonese Opera

04.06.2019, Seminar Hall & Studio, Xiqu Centre

This talk looks at the face painting and dressing processes used in contemporary Cantonese opera, and at the ways in which costumes contribute to the portrayal of different characters

ExecLab: Executive Short Courses 2019 – University of the Arts London

31.05.2019 to 02.06.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

Presented in collaboration with the University of the Arts London Short Courses, this three-day professional course offers insight into the skills required for managing arts and cultural events and developing sustainable creative business

The Music of Cantonese Opera

01.06.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, Professor Yu Siu-wah examines the concepts and characteristics of Cantonese opera music, offers insight into basic structures and arrangements, and discusses some of the transformations that have taken place over the centuries

Ming Furniture

29.05.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

In this illustrated talk, renowned local Ming furniture expert Dr Yip Shing-yiu offers insight into the artistry, style and development of some of the finest Chinese furniture design

Reading Cantonese Music Notation

28.05.2019, Seminar Hall & Studio, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, members of the arts group The Gong Strikes One demonstrate how to read traditional gongche music sheets and perform live on the zheng (Chinese zither) and dongxiao (bamboo flute)

The Musicality of Kunqu

25.05.2019, Seminar Hall & Studio, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, Dr Chan Chun-miu offers audiences insight into the distinctive sounds and melodies of the Kunqu art form, exploring the relationship between the use of dialects and the evolution of the art form, and the way that music and language is used to highlight different roles and characters

Indie Music – An International Perspective

21.05.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Using examples from the US and Britain, Stella Lau, former Programme Director in Performing Arts at HKU SPACE, explores the musical, social and economic relationships that underpin independent music labels, and whether independent artists who become popular in the mainstream can still be labelled “indie”

Wearable Xiqu-inspired Jewellery Workshop – Hairpin with Imitation Kingfisher Feather

19.05.2019, Atrium, Xiqu Centre

In this fun, free workshop, local artists Kong Hoi-kan and Ng Sze-yu demonstrate how to use ribbons to imitate the effect of kingfisher feathers and help you discover fun facts about the symbolic role of garments and head pieces in xiqu performances

Dialogue | Cantonese Opera

07.05.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Cantonese opera plays an important role in the lives of people in Hong Kong. This talk explores its transition from the use of Mandarin to the Cantonese vernacular, demonstrating vocal styles and techniques and offering a deeper understanding of the aesthetic features of the art form

Cantonese Opera and Modernity

04.05.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

This talk looks at Cantonese opera in the social context of modern Hong Kong, and examines how elements of western-modern music, literature and film culture have been adapted for use in the traditional performing art form

West Kowloon Young Fellows Scheme (Performing Arts) 2019

The West Kowloon Young Fellows Scheme supports young and aspiring talents to develop arts learning, public participation, community engagement and audience building projects that expand and contribute to the performing arts ecology in Hong Kong

The Literature in Kunqu

30.04.2019, Seminar Hall & Studio, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, Chinese opera scholar Chan Chun-miu looks at some of the literary texts used in Kunqu, and shares insight into Kunqu influence on xiqu songs and performance

Between Cantonese Opera and Film: Connie Chan and Female Cross-dressing

27.04.2019, Seminar Hall & Studio, Xiqu Centre

Since the post-war years, the convention of nüwenwusheng – female performers playing civil and military male roles – in Cantonese opera has been a popular practice in Hong Kong. In this talk, Prof Li Siu-leung looks at the recent history of female cross-dressing in Hong Kong Cantonese opera and film, with special reference to Connie Chan Po-chu

Chinese Culture Talk Series II

27.02.2019 to 24.04.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

In this series of three talks, local experts share their understanding of poetry, calligraphy and the ancient Chinese divination text the I Ching, and explore the relevance of traditional literary arts in a contemporary society

Egg-painting Workshop

21.04.2019, Atrium, Xiqu Centre

This Easter, join us at the Xiqu Centre Atrium for a new spin on egg painting, and learn about the face-painting process used for female Cantonese opera roles at the same time

Stone-painting Workshop

20.04.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

During this 2-hour stone-painting workshop, Hong Kong’s first and only full-time stone painter Kam Shing-yan guides you through basic techniques, and helps you achieve a sense of focused calm that acts as a perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city

The Stories Behind the Xiqu Centre

09.04.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, West Kowloon’s Executive Director of Performing Arts Louis Yu offers insight into the design and venue positioning of the Xiqu Centre, looking at the venue’s unusual use of space and its relationship with local Cantonese opera communities

The Stage Movements of Cantonese Opera

06.04.2019, Seminar Hall & Studio 5, Xiqu Centre

This talk looks at how acting, martial arts and dance are combined in Cantonese opera stage movement to create patterns of formulaic gesture that help define character and contribute to the unfolding of plot

The Music of Cantonese Opera

02.04.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

This talk explores the wide range of musical elements used in Cantonese opera, looking at the different vocal styles used for male and female roles, and the use of percussive instruments and rhythmic melodies to enhance mood and narrative

Wearable Xiqu-inspired Jewellery – Simple Sequin Brooch

17.03.2019, Atrium, Xiqu Centre

In this fun, free workshop, local artists Kong Hoi-kan and Ng Sze-yu show you how to make a simple xiqu-inspired brooch using colourful sequins and share insight into the symbolic role of garments and head pieces in xiqu performances

ExecLab: Executive Short Courses 2019 – RADA Business

15.03.2019 to 17.03.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

Working closely with RADA Business, the commercial arm of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), the world-class learning programme builds on dramatic arts, helping people at work to become brilliant communicators

Wearable Xiqu-inspired Jewellery – Resin Stone Brooch

16.03.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

In this fun creative workshop, local artists Kong Hoi-kan and Ng Sze-yu show you how to make a xiqu-inspired costume brooch using coloured resin stones and share insight into the symbolic role of garments and head pieces in xiqu performances

WE Dance (2018-19)

09.09.2018 to 10.03.2019, Art Park, West Kowloon

This September, WE Dance returns to the West Kowloon Art Park with Freespace Happening, to take you on a seven-month dance journey from September 2018 to March 2019

The Application of Nanyin in Cantonese Opera

05.03.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Looking at popular nanyin excerpts, this talk explores the history and evolution of nanyin, a form of Cantonese narrative singing, as one of the delivery styles used in Cantonese opera

Face Painting and Costumes of Cantonese Opera

02.02.2019 to 23.02.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

This talk looks at the face painting and dressing processes used in contemporary Cantonese opera, and at the ways in which costumes contribute to the portrayal of different characters

Paper Doll Workshop: Cantonese Opera Roles and Costumes

17.02.2019, Atrium, Xiqu Centre

Learn about the costumes, colours and accessories worn by different characters in Cantonese opera plays in a fun free workshop for participants of all ages

Paper Puppet Making Workshop: Lion Dance Head

16.02.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

For an auspicious start to the Lunar New Year, join our handicraft workshop and create a personalised paper puppet of a lion dance head and learn more about this unique cultural tradition!

The Stage Movements of Cantonese Opera

26.01.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

This talk looks at how acting, martial arts and dance are combined in Cantonese opera stage movement to create patterns of formulaic gesture that help define character and contribute to the unfolding of plot

The “Analects” in Cantonese Opera

24.01.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, Cantonese opera playwright Woo Kwok-yin shares insight into the creative process behind his work The Peregrinations of Confucius, and explores how xiqu as a multidisciplinary art form can breathe new life and relevancy into classic texts

Cantonese Opera and Cinema

06.01.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Between 1940 and 1970, a large number of stars from the Cantonese opera stage entered the film industry in Hong Kong. This talk looks at the impact of this phenomenon, and the importance of Cantonese opera films as historical records of performances from that era

West Kowloon 101 Foyer Talks

31.12.2018 to 06.01.2019, 2/F Foyer, Xiqu Centre

During the Xiqu Centre Pre-opening Gala, experienced professional performers share their experience and insight on various aspects of Cantonese opera in free and informal lunchtime and evening talks

Creation for Freespace: Dramaturgy and Beyond

Through a range of public round-table discussions, small group practicum sessions and workshops, “Dramaturgy and Beyond” will delve into the discourse in and around the practice of dramaturgy and the tools that are useful to the creation of dance and theatre within the contemporary context

Cantonese Opera in the Hong Kong Religious Context

05.01.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Professor Chan Sau-yan, expert on the musical structure, performance practice, ethnographic and historical aspects of Cantonese opera, looks at the tradition of religious operas in Hong Kong, and the challenges of preserving an ancient art form in a market-oriented economy

Perfect Wives in Cantonese Operas

04.01.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Cantonese operas are often based on stories of love and married life. The wives in these tales may be meek and loving or powerful and cunning. This talk looks at some of the Xiqu Centre opening performances to explore what makes a “perfect wife” on the Cantonese opera stage

The Functions and Practice of Xiaoqu (short tunes) in Cantonese Opera

03.01.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Melodic and song-like, xiaoqu can incorporate traditional instrumental melodies, folk songs, contemporary pop songs and even theme tunes from films and TV shows. This talk explores the origins and development of xiaoqu and its unique function in Cantonese opera

Chinese Culture – A series of four talks

21.10.2018 to 18.12.2018

What is the relationship between modern society and these time-honoured art forms? In this series of talks, speakers from specialist fields will take you on a journey of discovery that reveals the beauty and history behind specific arts for your appreciation

Arts and Cultural Management – A series of five talks

09.10.2018 to 11.12.2018

In this series of talks, local practitioners offer insight into the different areas of work involved in running cultural organisations and explore the qualifications and passion required for a career in the arts and culture field

The Stories Behind the Xiqu Centre

24.11.2018, Asia Society Hong Kong Center

In this talk, West Kowloon’s Executive Director of Performing Arts Louis Yu offers insight into the design and venue positioning of the Xiqu Centre, looking at the venue’s unusual use of space and its relationship with local Cantonese opera communities

The Music of Cantonese Opera

20.11.2018, H6 CONET

This talk explores the wide range of musical elements used in Cantonese opera, looking at the different vocal styles used for male and female roles, and the use of percussive instruments and rhythmic melodies to enhance mood and narrative

Face Painting and Costumes of Cantonese Opera

13.11.2018, D2 Place ONE

This talk looks at the face painting and dressing processes used in contemporary Cantonese opera, and at the ways in which costumes contribute to the portrayal of different characters

The Design of the Tea House Theatre

08.11.2018, CityU SCOPE Admiralty Learning Centre

In this talk, West Kowloon’s Head of Xiqu, Naomi Chung, offers insight into the positioning and operation of the Tea House Theatre, looking at how the venue offers visitors an intimate experience with the productions and how programmes are curated with first-time audiences in mind

Hong Kong International Black Box Festival

11.10.2018 to 03.11.2018

Co-presented with HKREP, the four-week festival showcases unconventional theatre forms that blur the lines between representations of fiction and reality. Each production invites the audience to become aware of our agency, allowing us to experience theatre in energising ways. Tickets available at URBTIX now

SHOWTIME! Launching West Kowloon’s Artistic Strategy for Performing Arts

27.10.2018, Asia Society Hong Kong Center

In this free talk, Alison M Friedman, West Kowloon’s Artistic Director, Performing Arts shares the vision and plans for the district’s upcoming performing arts venues, the Xiqu Centre, Freespace and the Art Park, and looks at some of the projects lined up for the future

The Stage Movements of Cantonese Opera

23.10.2018, CityU SCOPE Admiralty Learning Centre

This talk looks at how acting, martial arts and dance are combined in Cantonese opera stage movement to create patterns of formulaic gesture that help define character and contribute to the unfolding of plot

Behind the Design of the Xiqu Centre

18.10.2018, Hong Kong Polytechnic University

In this talk, West Kowloon’s Executive Director of Performing Arts Louis Yu offers insight into the design and venue positioning of the Xiqu Centre, looking at the venue’s unusual use of space and its relationship with local Cantonese opera communities

Dialogue | Cantonese Opera

18.09.2018, Campfire – Wong Chuk Hang

Cantonese opera plays an important role in the lives of people in Hong Kong. This talk explores its transition from the use of Mandarin to the Cantonese vernacular, demonstrating vocal styles and techniques and offering a deeper understanding of the aesthetic features of the art form

Dialogue | Gender Fluidity in Traditional Indonesian Dance

06.09.2018, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

Looking at gender fluidity in traditional Indonesian dance forms and the recognition of multiple genders in Indonesian cultural practices, dance artist Rianto, shares how his training and cultural background have helped him develop a unique dance vocabulary that embodies gender fluidity

“What Is Stage” Public Seminar Two: Jan Pappelbaum’s Aesthetics of Scenography

10.08.2018, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Amphitheatre

To wrap up this year’s “What Is Stage: From Text To Space” series on the work of Jan Pappelbaum, Head of Stage Design at the Schaubühne Berlin, we are delighted to welcome Pappelbaum to join us in Hong Kong to share his experience in an in-depth public seminar

What Is Stage: From Text to Space

10.06.2018 to 10.08.2018

Taking the theme “From Text to Space”, this year’s programme looks at the scenographic aesthetics of Jan Pappelbaum, head of Stage Design of Schaubühne Berlin. Register now

Cantonese Opera 101 - Music

17.07.2018, H6 CONET

This talk explores the musical elements of Cantonese opera, including vocal styles used by actors playing male and female roles, “melo-rhythmic” vocal forms and programmatic tunes, and more

101 Dialogue on Cantonese Opera

24.06.2018, Campfire – Wong Chuk Hang

In this talk, Pui Yan will share anecdotes and challenges in her career. In addition, she will introduce the costumes and make-up styles of sheng (male role) and dan, as well as singing styles and performing techniques used in Cantonese Opera. Participants may have the invaluable opportunities of trying on costumes

Arts and Cultural Management 101 - Managing Customers in Cultural Venues

13.06.2018, Campfire – Wong Chuk Hang

This talk invites practitioners to share their experience and to explore the qualities, passions and the skillsets required for a career in the arts and culture field

Kunqu 201

12.06.2018, HKU SPACE Po Leung Kuk Stanley Ho Community College

This talk introduces the historical development of kunqu through music, videos, images and historical documents, exploring the literature, music and performing methods of the art form and offering a contemporary picture of its development

101 Dialogue on Nanyin

09.06.2018, Campfire - Kennedy Town

In this talk, local musical group The Gong Strikes One guides audiences in appreciating the Nanyin recordings of Dou Wun and contemporary artistes, gives demonstrations of the art form and introduces some key musical terms to the participants. We hope that the participants gain holistic understanding of Nanyin, its lyrics and music

Producers’ Network Meeting & Forum 2018

18.05.2018 to 21.05.2018

PNMF brings together performing arts producers for four days of Closed-door Meeting and a public forum on promoting innovation in programme planning, venue operation, audience development and cross-disciplinary collaboration

Theatre 101: Applied Theatre – Connecting the Arts to Life and Society

28.04.2018, HKU SPACE Po Leung Kuk Stanley Ho Community College

This talk introduces a range of applied theatre projects from Hong Kong and overseas, exploring the nature and purpose of applied theatre, the ways in which practitioners adopt contemporary aesthetic concepts, and how the relationship between performers and audience changes across practices

Creation for Freespace: Choreographer & Composer Lab

09.04.2018 to 24.04.2018, Hong Kong Cultural Centre

During a 2-week trial-out lab, participating artists work in assigned pairs of one independent composer and one choreographer from Hong Kong Ballet - Mike Yip and Yuh Egami, Olivier Cong and Ricky Hu Song-wei and Tsui Chin-hung and Li Jiabo. On April 24, an informal works-in-process was showcased at the Ballet PLUS+ Salon Series. The new works will be developed and staged in September as part of Hong Kong Ballet’s “Hong Kong Cool” production

Cantonese Opera 101

17.04.2018, HKU SPACE Po Leung Kuk Stanley Ho Community College

This talk explores how Cantonese opera has transitioned from the use of Mandarin and traditional vocal techniques to the use of the Cantonese vernacular. Demonstrating vocal styles and techniques, the speaker offers a deeper understanding of the aesthetic features of Cantonese opera

Arts and Cultural Management 201 – Performing Arts at West Kowloon: Towards a Model of Learning and Audience Building

20.03.2018, Hong Kong Polytechnic University

This talk introduces the new venues of West Kowloon Cultural District, explores questions related audience building, and looks at the goals of the West Kowloon Learning and Participation team and the core public programmes being devised for the opening of these venues

Cantonese Opera and Hong Kong Culture 101

03.03.2018, HKU SPACE Po Leung Kuk Stanley Ho Community College

This talk takes an in-depth look at the ways in which Cantonese opera and Cantonese operatic song have shaped Hong Kong culture, exploring their influence on the local vernacular, education and performing arts

Arts and Cultural Management 101

27.01.2018 to 27.02.2018

The talks invite local practitioners to share their experience and explore the qualities required for a career in the arts and culture field

WE Dance Finale

11.02.2018, Big Circle, Nursery Park, West Kowloon

Join us for a marathon dance finale featuring showcases by local and international dancers, a dance hall where performers can show off their talents, and lots of interactive workshop

WE Dance (2017-18)

10.09.2017 to 11.02.2018, Nursery Park, West Kowloon

Taking place every second Sunday of the month at Freespace Happening, this exciting participatory dance programme invites you to join a wide range of dance activities in a natural outdoor environment

Creation for Freespace: Dance in Alternative Space

22.01.2018 to 03.02.2018

Independent artist Xavier Le Roy from France and Hong Kong dance artist Scarlet Yu lead two professional workshops and a public talk exploring different aspects of dance work, contemporary performance and live action in public spaces

The Foundations of Performance

16.01.2018 to 03.02.2018, Ko Shan Theatre/BRICK LANE

Through a series of workshops and conversations, the Foundations of Performance designed to bring together artists from different fields to exchange experience and inspiration

Cantonese Opera Face Painting and Costumes 101

16.01.2018, HKU SPACE - Admiralty Learning Centre

This talk looks at the face painting and dressing processes used in contemporary Cantonese opera, and at the ways in which costumes contribute to the portrayal of different characters

Freespace Tech Lab 2017

12.11.2017 to 26.11.2017, Hong Kong Cultural Centre

“Freespace Tech Lab”, a newly launched 3-year collaboration project between Zuni Icosahedron and West Kowloon, explores state-of-the-art stage technologies and looks at some of the many possibilities of black box theatre through showcases, exchange and training

Arts and Cultural Management 101 (September to October 2017)

26.09.2017 to 21.10.2017

With the development of arts and culture in Hong Kong there is an increased need for talent in the areas of cultural management and art administration. Arts and Cultural Management 101 invites local practitioners to share their experience and explore the qualities required for a career in the arts and culture field

What Is Stage: Dynamics of Seeing

The language of the stage is more than just the script and plot. The structure of a theatrical space, the props and set design, the costumes and lighting, all add to the theatrical imagery, transcending the text and creating a rich aesthetic experience for the audience

Cantonese Opera 101 – Xiaoqu (folk music)

26.07.2017, HKU SPACE International College - United Learning Centre

In this talk, the speaker Paris Wong looks at different types of xiaoqu to show the flexibility of Cantonese opera and how the art form incorporates elements of pop songs from different eras and theme songs from Hong Kong movies

Seminar on Theatertreffen 2017

21.07.2017 to 22.07.2017, Hong Kong Arts Centre

The seminar is a presentation of the productions chosen for the Theatertreffen based on film clips. In July, West Kowloon collaborates with Goethe-Institut Hong Kong to host Seminar on Theatertreffen 2017

Public Forum: Sensory Art

05.07.2017, Spring Workshop

Award-winning experimental sound designer and composer Darrin Verhagen shares his understanding of how sound interacts with other senses, and how composers and sound designers play a manipulative role in shaping perceptual and emotional responses to multisensory artworks

Hong Kong Production Ecology: “Simon Says” – A Case Study

03.06.2017, Hong Kong Cultural Centre

In this talk, Louis Yu and Anna CY Chan (Performing Arts, West Kowloon), Ong Yong Lock (Unlock Dancing Plaza), Emmanuelle Vo-Dinh (Le Phare, National Choreographic Center of Le Havre Normandy), editor and critic Daisy Chu, and professionals from the local performing arts scene share their thoughts on producing high quality new dance work

Producers’ Network Meeting & Forum 2017

12.05.2017 to 15.05.2017

The Producers’ Network Meeting and Forum brings together producers, mainly from the Chinese speaking region, to explore the effects on the arts ecosystem, the change and development in the role of producers, and the continued development of artistic content and audiences

WE Dance Finale

12.02.2017, Nursery Park, West Kowloon

Join us in the Big Circle as we wrap up our monthly WE Dance programme with a thrilling four-hour Finale party featuring non-stop showcases by local dance troupes, an interactive dance workshop, a dance hall for those who have got the moves to shine on stage and an open dance floor that you’re invited to joinNursery Park

WE Dance (2016-17)

11.09.2016 to 12.02.2017, Nursery Park, West Kowloon

Every month from September 2016 to February 2017 WE Dance takes place at Freespace Happening, bringing exciting participatory dance experiences. Join us there for an afternoon of dance and movement – and enjoy the fresh smell of grass and the beautiful harbour front skyline at the same timeNursery Park

Theatre Atelier Project – Holistic training programme with Edward Lam

02.08.2016 to 04.08.2016, Youth Square Y Studio

This summer, West Kowloon’s performing arts department teams up with Edward Lam Dance Theatre to launch the Theatre Atelier Project – a six-month training programme for young creative producers and administrators covering all aspects of theatre production and administration, including creative work, production, sales and marketing, digital promotion, and design

Sharing Session III on Overseas Training / Research Programme for Leaders from Local Arts Groups on Future Arts Development in Hong Kong

11.04.2016, Fringe Club

Five local artists – Sean Curran, Mo Lai, Even Lam, Marble Leung and Daniel Yeung – will share their insights gained from recent visits to arts organisations, centres and festivals in Europe and Asia

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Public Lecture on Autoteatro

14.11.2015, Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Join Ant for a public lecture on ‘autotheatre workshop’, where he will share how his works embrace and incorporate an untrained public, and his experience of presenting works in cities around the world

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Workshopping Automatic Workshop

09.11.2015 to 13.11.2015, Plato

In this workshop, Hampton and Meierhans will collaborate with young theatre makers on the development of an 'Automatic Workshop' – one led entirely by automatic text, recorded audio and visual media

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Public Lecture on Real Time Performance

07.11.2015, Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Jan Fabre is well known internationally as one of the most innovative and versatile artists of the day. Over the past 30 years, he has produced works as a theatre maker, author and visual artist

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Workshop on Real Time Performance

02.11.2015 to 06.11.2015, Ko Shan Theatre New Wing

In the workshop led by Ivana Jozic and Kasper Vandenberghe, two experienced performers of his teaching group, participants' body becomes an instrument that examines the transition from act to acting

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Public Lecture on Theatre of the Senses

31.10.2015, Hong Kong Polytechnic University

Hear from Enrique Vargas, a Colombian dramaturgist and anthropologist and Artistic director of Teatro de los Sentidos as he shares his knowledge on the research and creation of sensorial theatre

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Public Lecture on Writing Movement, Text & Dance

31.10.2015, Hong Kong Polytechnic University

International touring company Winter Guests are renowned for telling contemporary stories with words, video, music and movement. Their works are often based on real life experiences and use original text, transcribed recordings and improvisations

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Workshop on Theatre of the Senses

26.10.2015 to 31.10.2015, Ko Shan Theatre New Wing

For the past 20 years, Barcelona based theatre ensemble, Teatro de los Sentidos (“Theatre of Senses”), have been creating innovative works that open the boundaries between theatre and audience using experimental methods of corporeal and sensorial communication

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Workshop on Writing Movement, Text & Dance

26.10.2015 to 30.10.2015, Ko Shan Theatre New Wing

Join Alan Lucien Øyen, writer, choreographer, director and founder of Winter Guests from Norway, for a 5-day workshop that explores different ways of working with stories that both originate from the real world, as well as creating fictional stories in direct dialogue with surrounding realities.

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Workshop on Dramaturgy — Masterclass on Contemporary Theatre

25.10.2015, Videotage

In this four-hour intensive workshop, participants will engage in discussion and exercises in relation to a theme suggested by dramaturg Professor Christoph Lepschy, and bring along one idea and related materials to work on a proposal within the Hong Kong context

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Public Lecture on Dramaturgy — Masterclass on Contemporary Theatre

22.10.2015, On & On Cattle Depot Theatre

With examples from contemporary European theatres and theatrical forms familiar to the Hong Kong audience, Professor Christoph Lepschy will share his experience on dramaturgical practices

New Works Forum: Dance Dialogue with Wayne McGregor

17.10.2015, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Amphitheatre

The world renowned choreographer, Wayne McGregor is invited to Hong Kong for the first time. The New Works Forum provides a face-to-face opportunity of artistic exchange to understand how his research contributes to choreographic creativity in making dance, in dance education and in understanding bodies.

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Public Lecture on Playwright - Jon Fosse

10.10.2015, Sheung Wan Municipal Services Building

Norwegian playwright Jon Fosse is one of the most important contemporary playwrights of our times. Considered as a universe unto himself that stretches from his home, the Norwegian Vestlandet to embrace Asia, South America, Eastern Europe and other corners of the world

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Workshop on Playwright - Jon Fosse

05.10.2015 to 10.10.2015, Sheung Wan Municipal Services Building

In this 6-day workshop led by Norwegian dramaturg Hege Randi Torrensen, participants will embark on a journey to the Fosse's world, read behind the text and explore the relationship between reality and illusion

New Works Forum: Writing Choreographic Process

03.10.2015, Unlock Dancing Plaza U-Studio

Choreographer Emmanuelle Vo-Dinh from France will conduct a 5-day workshop for local dance professionals to explore and research the relationship of body and voice. A ‘body-in-progress’ showing will be held after the workshop. You are invited to join and share your views, and to exchange ideas with Emmanuelle and the workshop participants about their creative outcomes

Dance Video Lab - Short Film Selections from ‘New Work Forum: Screendance’ and ‘Experimental Film Virginia’

13.08.2015, Hong Kong Film Archive

In order to explore how dance and body movements are transformed from the scene to the screen, City Contemporary Dance Company and West Kowloon Cultural District Authority co-present the ‘New Works Forum: Screendance’ Workshop in July 2015, inviting artists from the Mainland, Taiwan, Macau, Hong Kong and Singapore to join the two-week Workshop for shooting dance video clips

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Workshop on Documentary Theatre

07.08.2015 to 08.08.2015, Videotage

Join Stefan Kaegi, director of Rimini Protokoll for a workshop that explores theatre projects with non-professional actors in the real world. Using research, public auditions and conceptual processes, leading European avant-garde theatre collective Rimini Protokoll has brought its ‘theatre of expert’ to the stage, giving voice to ‘experts’ who are not trained actors but have something to tell

International Workshop Festival of Theatre: Public Lecture on Documentary Theatre

06.08.2015, Hong Kong Arts Centre

As part of the International Workshop Festival of Theatre, West Kowloon is teaming with leading performing arts groups from Hong Kong and overseas to deliver a series of lectures for the public to learn about contemporary performances and their creative process

Introductory Screendance Workshop

02.08.2015, West Kowloon Cultural District Authority Project Site Office

Designed for artists from various disciplines, participants in this workshop will experience movement for and with the camera, as Healey shares her experience in creating the transformative and illuminating theatrical language that transcends performance space, revealing subtle layers of movement and perception on screen through exercise, discussion, sharing and practice DETAIL   APPLY

New Works Forum – Screendance Public Forum

01.08.2015, Hong Kong Arts Centre

In this public forum, award-winning directors and choreographers Noémie Lafrance (New York/Canada), Sue Healey (Australia), Yuri Ng (Hong Kong) and Maurice Lai (Hong Kong) together with the 20 workshop participants will engage in a discussion of the existing model of making screendance, upon the form, and its content, practice and presentation. Trailers of the short choreographed films produced in the 2-weeks workshop by participants will be screened

New Works Forum: Screendance

New Works Forum: Screendance is an on-going, evolving project that aims to nurture new creations in the art of screendance and provide an opportunity for artistic exchange

Producers’ Network Meeting and Forum 2015

22.05.2015, Asia Society Hong Kong Center

The event aims at bringing together like-minded producers and curators who play crucial roles in the arts ecosystem to create action plans that will improve the competitiveness of new art centres, widen their audience base and expand their artistic content

Sharing Session II on Overseas Training / Research Programme for Leaders from Local Arts Groups on Future Arts Development in Hong Kong

28.04.2015, Fringe Club

Artistic Director of Theatre du Pif, Sean Curran, President of FM Theatre Power, Mo Lai and Head of Programme of Hong Kong Repertory Theatre, Marble Leung, to share their insights from their recent visits to arts organisations, centers and festivals in North America and Europe

Tai Ping Shan Community Storytelling Guided Tour

04.04.2015 to 19.04.2015

Three guided tours will be available and participants will have a chance to listen to the stories and history of the Tai Ping Shan community directly from the residents and shop owners. Participants will also be encouraged to engage with the community in different ways, including interactive games and movement expressions

Sharing Session on Overseas Training / Research Programme for Leaders from Local Arts Groups on Future Arts Development in Hong Kong

03.11.2014, Fringe Club

Even Lam, Artistic Director of Jumbo Kids Theatre and Daniel Yeung, renowned dance artist will share their experience and insights for art and cultural strategies from their recent visit to Europe and Asia

Do Cities need Xiqu?

27.09.2014, Theatre, Yau Ma Tei Theatre

Two artists of xiqu from Mainland China and Hong Kong: Mao Weitao and Liza Wang, will take a retrospective look at the art form and discuss how xiqu can connect with the modern city life

New Works Forum: ‘Social Acupuncture’ in the Tai Ping Shan Area

23.08.2014, Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences

How do artists engage local communities and improve their shared culture in a changing society? Join an open house gathering at the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences on 23 August, focusing on community art projects in the Tai Ping Shan area

Intensive 6-day Voice Workshop with Richard Armstrong

07.07.2014 to 12.07.2014, Wanchai Campus, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

This 6-day voice workshop will focus on exploring and expanding vocal range and character, with an emphasis on good use of breath, body alignment, and physical grounding, as well as on the connection between the voice and the personality of each participant

New Works Forum – Challenging Perspectives on Physicalities and Bodies

07.06.2014, Recital Hall, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

The forum will explore ways of producing inclusive performances for artists with diverse backgrounds and physical abilities at different venues. Speakers from overseas will share their creative processes with reference to their respective productions Sloap and PERFECT (im)PERFECTIONS - stories untold

New Works Forum: New Writing for the Theatre,West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, Hong Kong Repertory Theatre

29.03.2014, 6/F, Sheung Wan Civic Centre

International experts in theatre arts will discuss the development trend of new works and share experiences in nurturing talents for the field.

The New Royal Shakespeare Theatre - Designing a modern theatre from inside out

21.10.2013, WKCDA Office

A workshop co-presented by WKCDA & HKAAA, in collaboration with HKATTS, Simon Harper talks about how to get a brief right, identifying the right equipment, addressing concerns raised by the client and the obstacles, challenges of the project.

Xiqu and City Life

28.09.2013, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

Luo Huaizhen and Cheung Ping-kuen share their experience in promoting Chinese traditional theatre in modern cities, and explore the unique role of xiqu in citylife.

Making it happen - how touring theatre in the UK is changing

02.08.2013, WKCDA Office

A workshop co-presented by WKCDA and HKAAA, Ms. Rachel Tackley, Director of English Touring Theatre, talks about what is the trend of touring in the UK - how it has changed over the years and what lies in its future.

Sharing Across Genres in Chinese Traditional Theatre

22.06.2013, Yau Ma Tei Theatre

Pei Yanling and Yuen Siu-fai will engage in an illuminating discussion on how the various genres can interact.

2013 Cultural Leadership Summit

27.05.2013 to 29.05.2013, Multiple Venues

Co-presented by WKCDA and HKAAA, the Summit invites international, regional & local cultural leaders to come together & examine how the concept of entrepreneurship can be applied in successful organisations.

Capacity Building for Inclusive Arts Programmes

26.03.2013 to 28.03.2013, WKCDA Office

A talk and workshop co-presented by WKCDA , British Council and HKAAA, Ms Jo Verrent shares her experience in capacity building for inclusive arts programmes

Accessibility, Interactivity and Involvement: Programming and Engaging Audiences Workshop

18.02.2013, WKCDA Office

A workshop co-presented by WKCDA and HKAAA, Ms. Virginia Hyam will share her experience of curating programmes and producing events, which have successfully engaged audiences, from indoor performances and festivals to large-scale outdoor events

Outdoor Event Planning Workshop

16.11.2012, WKCDA Office

A workshop co-presented by WKCDA and HKAAA, Mr. John Bayley, Head of Production of Sydney Festival, talks about how he managed the logistics challenges when presenting outdoor events

2012 Cultural Leadership Summit

30.05.2012 to 01.06.2012, Multiple Venues

Co-presented by WKCDA and HKAAA, the 2012 Cultural Leadership Summit focuses on various aspects to successful creative organisations.