Cantonese opera plays an important role in the everyday lives of people in Hong Kong, influencing both the language and the popular culture. In this talk, emerging Cantonese opera actor, producer and educator Paris Wong explores these relationships and looks at how the art form has transitioned from the use of Central Plains Mandarin* and traditional vocal techniques to the use of the Cantonese vernacular.

Demonstrating vocal styles and techniques, and introducing the symbolic meanings of different patterns and colours, he offers a deeper understanding of the aesthetic features of Cantonese opera.

*Central Plains Mandarin (Zhongzhouyun, also known as Guilin guanhua, the language of the officials of Guilin), the archaic singing style of used in early Cantonese opera.

Date:
7 May 2019 (Tuesday)

Time:
7:30pm–9:00pm

Venue:
Seminar Hall, 2/F, Xiqu Centre

Speaker:
Paris Wong, Cantonese Opera Artist

Language:
Cantonese

Fee:
Free admission. Limited capacity on a first come, first served basis. Please register online in advance.

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Enquiries:
Ms Chan (852) 2200 0812, learning@wkcda.hk

Accessibility Services:
Cantonese audio description and Hong Kong sign language interpretation are available upon request with at least 14 days’ advance notice. Wheelchair accessible seats and companion seats are available on a first come, first served basis. Please request with at least 4 days’ advance notice.

Adverse Weather Arrangements:
The talk will be cancelled if a black rainstorm warning or a typhoon signal no. 8 or above is in force at/after 3:30pm on the day of the event.

About Speaker:

Paris Wong

Paris Wong graduated from the School of Chinese Opera at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts with a bachelor’s degree in Chinese Opera. Performing mainly in the dan role, Wong represented Hong Kong at the first Hou Baolin Cup China National Youth and Teenage Qu Yi Competition Singing Contest, where he was recognised with The Judge’s Special Award. Paris works as a producer for Cantonese opera, and in 2007 founded the Pine Moon Cantonese Cultural Arts Centre to promote Cantonese opera education. He also hosts and performs in Cantonese opera music programmes.