EdUHK to stage “Cantonese Opera Night”
EdUHK to stage “Cantonese Opera Night”
In celebration of the 25th Anniversary of The Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK), the Research Centre for Transmission of Cantonese Opera (RCTCO) will stage “Cantonese Opera Night” on 20 and 21 June at the Grand Theatre of the Xiqu Centre in the West Kowloon Cultural District. RCTCO announced the details of the forthcoming performances at a press conference today (12 April), in which Cantonese opera stars and lovers gathered and shared their passion for Cantonese opera culture and their dedication to its preservation.
EdUHK President Professor Stephen Cheung Yan-leung said, “Passing on the precious heritage of Cantonese opera to the next generation is a crucial yet challenging task. Established last year, RCTCO is devoted to innovating and enhancing the promotion and knowledge transfer of Chinese opera culture. Through conducting systematic research and utilising new technologies, the University aims to contribute to the development of performing arts education.” According to Professor Cheung, what makes the performances even more special is that the year 2019 not only marks the 25th anniversary of EdUHK; it is also the 10th anniversary of UNESCO’s inscription of Cantonese opera on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Professor Leung Bo-wah, Director of RCTCO, revealed that the intergenerational collaboration between veteran Cantonese opera stars and young talented actors will be among the highlights in the upcoming performances. “On the same stage, there will be actors across four generations, from veteran stars aged 80 or above, to emerging teenage talent,” he said. “This is like ‘passing the torch’ to the next generation, creating two unique and enjoyable shows for Cantonese opera lovers.”
On the same occasion, two acclaimed Cantonese opera heavyweights, Mr Yau Sing-po and Ms Wan Fai-yin, exchanged views with Mr Lau Chin-shek, Honorary Advisor of the Sing Fai Cantonese Opera Promotion Association (Sing Fai). They discussed the importance of the promotion and preservation of the tradition of Cantonese opera for the sustainable development of the local performing arts industry. Mr Yau Sing-po and Ms Wan Fai-yin continue to be enthusiastic and prolific Cantonese opera performers, even though they have reached retirement age. Sing Fai, an art group dedicated to promoting Cantonese Opera and nurturing young talent and audiences in Hong Kong, will also send young performers for the two performances.
The shows are scheduled for 7pm on 20 and 21 June. Please refer to the programme rundown in the Chinese press release (available in Chinese only).
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