Five Artists: Sites Encountered

07.06.2019 to 20.10.2019, M+ Pavilion, Art Park

Five Artists: Sites Encountered brings together an international group of artists whose varied approaches offer ways to rethink ideas of site and place

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

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

Shanghai Pingtan Troupe "Gao Bowen performs Blossoms"

23.05.2019 to 02.06.2019, Tea House Theatre, Xiqu Centre

This four-part adaptation of an award-winning novel brings to life an intricate tale and showcases the unique charm of the narrative Pingtan tradition. Each part is performed on consecutive evenings, with two complete four-night runs over the programme period

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

Xiqu Paper Headdress Workshop

18.05.2019, Studio, Xiqu Centre

Make your own life-size paper model and learn fun facts about xiqu headdresses in a fun, hands-on workshop

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

Four Dreams in the Camellia Hall by the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe: The Peony Pavilion

05.05.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

After dreaming of an encounter with a handsome stranger, the lovesick young Du Liniang is so bewitched that she dies of longing. Later, when the scholar Liu Mengmei discovers a portrait of Liniang, he is filled with a sense of romantic déjà vu…

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

Four Dreams in the Camellia Hall by the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe: A Dream Under the Southern Bough

04.05.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

In a depressed and drunken slumber, recently demoted Tang dynasty general Chun Yufen dreams he visits a strange land where he is presented with riches and power. When his fortune is squandered through greed and corruption, he wakes full of remorse

Four Dreams in the Camellia Hall by the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe: A Pair of Purple Hairpins

03.05.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

After pledging his love to Xiaoyu, the beautiful daughter of Prince Huo, the handsome young Li Yi suddenly disappears. Broken hearted, Xiaoyu assumes she has been deserted, until the arrival of a knight in yellow robes reveals the truth…

Four Dreams in the Camellia Hall by the Shanghai Kunqu Opera Troupe: The Tale of Handan

02.05.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

At a small inn in the city of Handan, a scholar named Lu encounters a Taoist immortal who lends him a magical porcelain pillow. The same night, Lu has a vivid dream that changes the course of his life

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

Noguchi for Danh Vo: Counterpoint

16.11.2018 to 22.04.2019, M+ Pavilion, West Kowloon

The exhibition presents art and design works by the celebrated modern sculptor Isamu Noguchi in dialogue with newly created work by Danh Vo, one of the most critically acclaimed conceptual artists active today

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

Standard Chartered Tea House Theatre Experience

Tea House Theatre, Xiqu Centre

Presented by our Tea House Rising Stars Troupe, this 90-minute narrated performance is specially designed to introduce new audiences to Chinese traditional theatre. To recreate the atmosphere of Hong Kong’s early 20th century tea houses, audiences are also served traditional tea and dim sum during the show

Open Up Tuen Mun @ West Kowloon

24.03.2019, Art Park, West Kowloon

Join us and experience the transformation and vitality of Tuen Mun District! A community engagement event to present the local characteristics, art and culture of Tuen Mun from the perspective of past, present and future

Hong Kong Flower Show 2019 – West Kowloon Cultural District

15.03.2019 to 24.03.2019, Victoria Park, Hong Kong

West Kowloon is staging a landscaped garden at this year’s Hong Kong Flower Show, taking inspiration from the Chinese hibiscus – the theme flower of this year’s event – and our upcoming venue, Freespace, in the West Kowloon Art Park. Join us at Victoria Park to explore a picture-perfect floral display

Xiqu Film Screenings (March)

09.03.2019 to 24.03.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Accompanying the China Theatre Association Plum Blossom Award Troupe performances, this screening series showcases the work of award-winning artists and the regional characteristics of different xiqu genres, and offers an exciting opportunity for audiences to catch some rare examples of fine xiqu cinema

Eastern Ethos Express @ West Kowloon

17.03.2019, Art Park, West Kowloon

Come and get a taste of the characteristics of Eastern District and West Kowloon! A community engagement event to share the precious community memory and invite general public to explore the uniqueness of the districts

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

A Master Selection of Mixed Xiqu Excerpts

16.03.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

This mixed excerpt performance offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience highlights from some of the less familiar regional xiqu variations, including a Gannan tea-picking opera from Jiangxi and an archaic Ouju piece from Zhejiang

Tickets now on sale

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

A Master Selection of Kunqu Excerpts

15.03.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

Showcasing highlights from the oldest form of xiqu still performed today, this selection demonstrates the nuance, grace and regional characteristics of Kunqu acting and singing and the talents of the specialist performers

Tickets now on sale

Freespace Happening (9–10.3.2019)

09.03.2019 to 10.03.2019, Art Park, West Kowloon

To wrap up the last weekend of this season’s Freespace Happening in style, our music stage offers a great mix of sounds from round the globe: Indonesian duo Senyawa, French avant-garde band Las Aves, US ensemble Mik Nawooj with Hong Kong’s MC Yan and musicians and much, much more!

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

Lady Spring Fragrance

28.02.2019 to 01.03.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

Adapted from a Korean folk tale, this original new play is set in imperial China and recounts the forbidden love between a coutesan’s daughter and the son of a magistrate. Will their commitment prove stronger than the challenges that face them, or will fate tear them apart?

Tickets now on sale

The Legend of the White Snake

26.02.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

Blending martial arts and romance, this new adaptation of a classic tale depicts the love between Madame White Snake and Xu Xian and their tragic separation by the powerful monk Fahai

Tickets now on sale

The Melodies of Nanyin

26.02.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

In this talk, members of the arts group The Gong Strikes One illustrate with live demonstrations how the vocal and instrumental melodies of nanyin are created and developed based on the lyrics

Kowloon City Art Festival @ West Kowloon

23.02.2019 to 24.02.2019, Art Park, West Kowloon

Join us to explore the vitality of Kowloon City District and West Kowloon! A community engagement event in the themes of creativity, education and sharing with a wide range of cultural and recreational activities. Learn more about the uniqueness of Kowloon City and West Kowloon

Xiqu Film Screenings (February)

09.02.2019 to 24.02.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Featuring seven Cantonese opera films produced in Hong Kong between 1948 and 1962, this screening series explores the complex relationship between on-stage and on-screen personas of some of the most renowned stage artists of the time. Also included is the award-winning contemporary documentary My Way, chronicling the struggle of two aspiring Cantonese opera actors

Tickets now on sale

The Butterfly and the Red Pear Blossoms

23.02.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

A talented scholar and a courtesan fall in love after years of exchanging letters and poetry. Although fate conspires to keep them apart, the pair are finally united after a series of tantalising twists and turns...

Tickets now on sale

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

Forty Years of Cherished Love

22.02.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

Based on the life of poet Lu You, this heart-wrenching play tells the story of his tragic separation from his first wife, and their accidental meeting, many years later, after both of them have remarried...

Tickets now on sale

The Peregrinations of Confucius

20.02.2019 to 21.02.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

Based on texts from the Analects, this new play recounts the exploits of Confucius, one of the most influential philosophers in Chinese history, who spent 14 years travelling to preach his wisdom to the warlords of ancient China

Tickets now on sale

The Sounds of Battle

19.02.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

This complex political love triangle tells the story of princess Cuibi, her lover general Xia, and their struggle with the powerful King of Qin, whose one goal is to make Cuibi his wife

Tickets now on sale

The Knight Errant's Adventure in the Palace

18.02.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

A belligerant war hero demands the hand of a beautiful princess. Discovering that she is in love with another he threatens the pair with an deadly ultimatum. Will the lovers manage to outwit this powerful and dangerous man?

Tickets now on sale

Goddess of the Ninth Heaven

17.02.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

This romantic legend tells the tale of Ai and Yang. Separated by a raging fire set by a jealous prince, the young lovers jump to their death in the flames. Reunited in the afterlife, their love is blessed for eternity

Tickets now on sale

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 Curious Case of A Red Embroidered Shoe

16.02.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

In a tale of romantic intrigue and wrongdoing, a besotted court clerk murders his wife to elope with his lover. Although he carefully arranges the crime scene to make himself look innocent, there is one detail he overlooks...

Tickets now on sale

Bound-foot Liu Jinding Battles at the Fort

10.02.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

After a heated duel, general Gao and Liu Jinding, the female chief of a mountain fortress, find themselves so drawn to each other that when Gao is captured by the enemy, Liu single-handedly comes to his rescue. An action-packed romantic drama offering a treat for martial arts fans

Tickets now on sale

Freespace Happening (10.2.2019)

10.02.2019, Art Park, West Kowloon

Join us to celebrate the first weekend of the Year of the Pig with live music from GDJYB, tfvsjs, Milkmouth, DJ sets from Solar Sound System, indigenous dance from Taiwan, valentine bouquet and stone painting workshops, story-telling and drawing sessions about fish ponds and local birds, pet games and more

Life's Blessing to Shen and Meng

09.02.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

A Spring Festival staple, this entertaining comedy tells the story of a marital crisis involving a browbeaten scholar, a philandering father-in-law, false accusations and lies. But can there still be a happy ending?

Tickets now on sale

The Reincarnation of Red Plum

21.01.2019 to 30.01.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

For our Grand Opening, and the 60th anniversary of its premiere, we present legendary dramatist Tong Tik-sang’s The Reincarnation of Red Plum. Under the artistic direction of legendary veteran Pak Suet Sin, the production celebrates the living tradition of Cantonese opera, showcasing three generations of talented performers and offering a new perspective on an enduring classic

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Xiqu Film Screenings (January)

26.01.2019 to 27.01.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

Accompanying our Grand Opening performance The Reincarnation of Red Plum – an acclaimed production by Hong Kong’s legendary stars Yam Kim-fai and Pak Suet-sin – this screening series presents three comic Cantonese opera films showing the magical Yam-Pak chemistry on screen

Tickets now on sale

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

Freespace Happening (13.1.2019)

13.01.2019, Art Park, West Kowloon

Join us to welcome the new year with live music, dance and fun workshops! The eclectic line-up includes Cris Derksen Trio from Canada, David Boring, Dusty Bottle, Winter Bagels and Mo-Men-T x Experimental Vocal Ensemble from Hong Kong. Learn fun facts about food at the “Open Picnic: Eat Well” and more

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

Handicraft Workshops

01.01.2019 to 06.01.2019, Studio 5, Xiqu Centre

Join us during the Xiqu Centre Pre-opening Gala week for free workshops offering a hands-on introduction to three of Hong Kong’s most recognisable heritage arts: lion dances, Cantonese opera and paper cutting

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

Pre-opening Gala Film Screenings

30.12.2018 to 06.01.2019, Seminar Hall, Xiqu Centre

To complement our Grand Theatre performances we present five Cantonese opera films produced between 1957 and 2011 and featuring some of the legends of the golden age of Cantonese opera film

Pre-opening Gala Guided Tours

30.12.2018 to 06.01.2019, Xiqu Centre

Explore our new facilities and discover fun facts about the rich art of xiqu on our 60-minute guided tours

Presentations by the Tea House Rising Stars Troupe

30.12.2018 to 06.01.2019, Tea House Theatre, Xiqu Centre

Our special narrated programme offers visitors an introduction to Cantonese opera through a selection of short excerpts demonstrating a range of vocal and music styles

Stage Dedication and Open Day Cantonese Opera performances

30.12.2018 to 06.01.2019, Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre

Featuring two specially selected set pieces and a series of excerpt performances, this auspicious programme is presented by the Chinese Artists Association of Hong Kong and features some of the city’s most talented performers

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