What’s on? Things to do this April in Hong Kong

Enjoy a fantastic range of events to have fun and soak up some culture, from the Hong Kong Sevens to the film festival, masterpieces on display and so much more.

Illuminate! Run Beyond

Following the successful hosting of this immersive installation in global cities such as Washington DC, Toronto, London and Amsterdam, Italian artist Angelo Bonello brings his much-acclaimed light show to the majestic backdrop of Victoria Harbour. Visitors to his shows often tell of a surreal experience in which visions of silhouetted figures appear to leap almost magically from the installation creating a dreamlike, mystical ambience. Expect to be enchanted as Illuminate! Run Beyond heralds the launch of the Wan Chai Harbourfront Event Space. Bonello’s Art Light display will then continue until 28 April.

When: Until 4 April

Where: Wan Chai Harbourfront Event Space

How much: Free

For more information: wches.com.hk

Songkran

Running in conjunction with celebrations to mark the Thai New Year, the Songkran Festival is a riotous, fun- filled occasion in which a good time is always had by all. Certain streets of Hong Kong become a veritable battlefield as participants endeavour to soak each other with water and thereby cleanse their spirits of all misfortune amassed over the previous year. The festival also marks a way for Thais in the city to promote community integration. Events at Songkran HK 2024 include dance performances, a market, food stalls and the Nang Songkran Parade.

When: 4-8 April

Where: D2 Place and Cheung Yee Street

How much: Free

For more information: songkran.hk

Hong Kong Sevens

This fantastic festival of fun and sporting excellence makes its swansong at Hong Kong Stadium before moving to Kai Tak Sports Park in 2025. For three decades, the iconic venue has provided magical moments and thrilling rugby for fans who flock to Hong Kong for the party atmosphere. A streamlined competition sees 12 men’s and 12 women’s teams competing for the coveted trophy, while China, Japan and Hong Kong (men) and China, Thailand and Hong Kong (women) battle in the Melrose Claymores competition.

When: 5-7 April

Where: Hong Kong Stadium

How much: Three-day pass HK$1,950

For more information: hksevens.com

Zlatomir Fung

A precociously gifted musical talent, at age 24 cellist Zlatomir Fung has performed with some of the world’s leading orchestras and is a hot property in the classical music industry. In 2019, he was the youngest-ever cello gold-medal winner at the International Tchaikovsky Competition. The US-raised Chinese-Bulgarian prodigy makes his Hong Kong debut, ably accompanied by local star Rachel Cheung on piano.

When: 17 April

Where: City Hall Concert Hall

How much: From HK$180

For more information: cityhall.gov.hk

Beyond the Singularity

The final exhibition of the Arts Development Council’s TECH 2.0 series, which has shone an interactive light on the connection between arts, technology and the community, focuses on the topic du jour – artificial intelligence. It asks participants to venture into the world of AI and explore the deeper meaning of its revolutionary impact on technology and the creative arts in general. This is the first major exhibition in Hong Kong where artists have used AI tools to create new works.

When: Until 7 April

Where: Showcase, Wong Chuk Hang

How much: Free

For more information: arts-tech.hk

Westk Funfest

Let your imagination run wild at this family-oriented arts extravaganza that allows visitors to explore and participate in a multitude of interactive experiences indoors and out. Try Ephemeral, the immersive public art installation created by award-winning Sydney-based design studio Atelier Sisu, which lands in Hong Kong for the first time and includes a ‘Colossal’ new element. Alternatively, 10-Minute Dance Parties is an unforgettable celebration of dance.

When: Until 7 April

Where: West Kowloon Cultural District venues

How much: Free or various prices

For more information: westkowloon.hk

Hong Kong International Film Festival

Now in its 48th edition, the Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF) has garnered an outstanding reputation for the breadth and quality of the movies it screens. A major cultural event in its own right, it has become the template for other Asian film festivals keen to replicate this success to their film- loving public. This year the Hong Kong programme spotlights the works of directors Fruit Chan, Martin McDonagh and Hamaguchi Ryusuke.

When: Until 8 April

Where: Various venues

How much: From HK$55

For more information: hkiff.org.hk

Masterpieces from the National

Take advantage while you can of this fantastic museum collaboration in which amazing works of art usually residing in London’s National Gallery have been loaned out to the Hong Kong Palace Museum. This is the first time paintings from the National Gallery have been made accessible for the public to view in Hong Kong. In total, 52 masterpieces by some of the art-world greats can be contemplated.

When: Until 11 April

Where: Hong Kong Palace Museum

How much: HK$150

For more information: hkpm.org.hk

Madame Song

Immerse yourself in the magnificent world of Song Huai-Kuei by spending some time at this major exhibition dedicated to the life and works of the Chinese cultural pioneer. The multitalented Madame Song touched and shaped Chinese art, film, music and fashion, and her influence spanned decades, from the 1950s to the early 2000s when China itself changed dramatically. The curators have gathered more than 320 objects for visitors to admire.

When: Until 14 April

Where: West Gallery, M+ Museum

How much: HK$140

For more information: mplus.org.hk

Arrival Notice: In a tactical change, Hong Kong is rolling out new local attractions. Will more tourists roll up?

Hong Kong’s ability to attract tourists and stage major events featuring international stars has dominated the headlines over recent months. Just when visitor numbers began to rebound following the devastating Covid years, the Lionel Messi saga put Hong Kong in an unwelcome global spotlight and undoubtedly left many unanswered questions. Negativity about visitors reducing their spending while on our shores has also threatened to derail efforts to lure more.

It wasn’t always difficult, of course. Hong Kong has been a beacon for tourists through the ages. The stunning harbour set against the backdrop of a forest of skyscrapers and majestic hills has long captivated the imagination, and there are positive signs pointing to a return to the days of abundant incomers.

Cruise high

In an indication of rising arrival rates, cruise ship visits are now buoyant. Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) shares that from November 2023 to April 2024, the number of international ship calls exceeded pre-pandemic levels. No doubt many of those luxury-cruise travellers would have been mesmerised by the engrossing view of the fragrant harbour as their ship slowly moored at Ocean Terminal or the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.

Tourism is big business. Government economists have calculated that each batch of 1.5 million tourists contributes HK$3 billion to Hong Kong’s gross domestic product.

In the recent Budget, HK$1.09 billion was allocated to help boost tourism, which will enable the HKTB to increase efforts in four strategic directions: developing diversified tourism experiences; staging and supporting large-scale international events; developing diverse visitor source markets and stepping up promotions; and enhancing service quality and providing continuous support for the travel trade. A new dedicated team at the HKTB, the Mega Event Development and Advancement division, has been tasked with helping global event organisers navigate their way into the city more easily.

Shift in emphasis

HKTB spokesperson opines that Hong Kong’s tourism offerings do not necessarily need to be improved, but there should be a shift to cater to changing consumer preferences.

Government estimates suggest tourism numbers in Hong Kong will recover to 50 million visitors this year – a figure encouragingly revised from an earlier HKTB forecast of about 46 million. While this is up from 2023, it still represents a significant shortfall from pre-pandemic levels; about 65 million tourists flocked to Hong Kong in 2018, with nearly four in five arriving from mainland China.

Today’s tourists from the north, though, do not seem to splurge on luxury items as before. “Changes in consumer behaviour and travel demands have undergone a paradigm shift from consumption to higher demand of immersive and in-depth experiences,” says a HKTB spokesperson. “[So] our tourism offerings are also gradually shifting the focus from tactical offers such as discount and brick-and-mortar shopping experiences to arts and culture, wellness and green tourism, together with digital experiences and quality, customisable services.

Reconnecting tourists

HKTB research suggests recent HKTB campaigns like ‘Hello Hong Kong’ and ‘Hong Kong Night Treats’ have been hugely successful in re-engaging with world travellers. The goal for the upcoming year is to convert tourists interested in visiting Hong Kong into actual arrivals, and secondly, to get them spending in town.

Just the first step in the diversified tourism experience will be a revamped version of the nightly light-and-sound show ‘A Symphony of Lights’. Monthly pyrotechnic and drone shows, another of HKTB’s new initiatives, have been in the firing line though, as an environmentally aware segment of public opinion suggests these should be switched to drone-only.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan has indicated the pyrotechnic shows would encompass different monthly themes in line with mega events. He also suggested publicity measures to promote Hong Kong would include producing reality TV shows and rewarding outstanding frontline staff in the hospitality sector.

Local flavour

The HKTB recently leveraged its year-round promotional platform, ‘Arts in Hong Kong’, to showcase international art and cultural events, including Art Basel Hong Kong, Art Central and ComplexCon Hong Kong, in a bid to create a wider buzz. Through its research after the pandemic, the tourism body has gleaned that visitors are particularly drawn by local culture. A cha chaan teng-style cafe, for example, was set up at Art Basel to add local flavour and enrich visitor experiences.

“That’s why we will continue to promote the local neighbourhoods to offer authentic experiences and launch a second phase of the Temple Street promotion,” says a HKTB spokesperson. “Our East-meets-West festival calendar is also unique in Asia, and we will devote tangible resources to amplify the ambience of these festivities through events, promotions and city-wide décors to appeal to visitors.

Events capital

Much debate of late has centred on Hong Kong’s capability to promote and stage world- class events and bring big stars to the city. That Singapore held an exclusive deal to hold the Taylor Swift concert with plenty of carrot involved in the form of government monetary assistance caused some consternation here. Whether taxpayer’s money would be best served by such inducements is the source of heated argument in Hong Kong. There has been much talk of the ‘Swiftonomics’ effect of her performances in Singapore.

The government did inject HK$16 million into last month’s LIV Golf tournament, which duly attracted global attention and some of the best golfing professionals. The fact that this widely- praised event proved such a success has gone some way to alleviating disappointment over the Messi no-show.

In terms of courting international mega acts, the 50,000-capacity stadium at Kai Tak Sports Park is expected to open next year. Hoteliers hope this facility will help entice stars to perform in the city and fans to stay overnight, especially if multi-night performances can be scheduled. The authorities also intend to release details of mega events in a timelier manner so commercial entities can best capitalise on business opportunities.

Quality count

What the city can be proud of is the breadth and quality of the events it holds. Underscoring Hong Kong’s intention to remain Asia’s event capital, the HKTB spokesperson reeled off a number of major events organised or partnered by the HKTB that will “contribute to soliciting high-yield and high-value visitors”. These include the Hong Kong Sevens, Hong Kong Tennis Open, Art Basel, Clockenflap, Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races, Hong Kong Cyclothon and Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival.

The five Art March installations running until 2 June are expected to attract more than two million visitors. Despite an estimated combined staging cost of about HK$50 million, they are free to the public, and the government has stressed the idea is to bring fun and happiness to the city.

One particularly innovative offering, teamlab: Continuous, features more than 200 luminous eggs sitting in Tamar Park and dotting Victoria Harbour. The hues and acoustic outputs of this mesmerising display of ovoids will transform upon interaction with visitors.

Art March spanned a diverse range of activities from exhibitions of art and culture to television and film festivals. These were part of 80 events scheduled for the first half of 2024, as Hong Kong slowly but surely woos back the gone but not forgotten tourists.

Ace of Space: Led by owner Rasheed Shroff, social consciousness and sustainability flourish at Banyan Workspace

Rasheed Shroff’s co-working space is located in a three-decade-old industrial building in Quarry Bay. But inside, it’s a blueprint of what a modern office should look like, with a feel of zen and a killer harbour view. As we ring the bell, Shroff joyfully hops into the office’s cavernous foyer. There’s something undeniably adolescent about his demeanour – like that of a teenager left alone in a grown-up’s house. Throwing open the door, he says hello, and leads us past a marble reception counter and a hard-to-miss framed letter B – the company logo, Banyan Workspace.

“I guess this is what a positive working environment does? Less stress means looking young?” he laughs. “At the peak of the pandemic years, there was a time when I was the only person in this space. That was hard and mentally exhausting. Thank god that’s over!”

As a visionary entrepreneur with a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of work and business, Shroff recognises the limitations of traditional office spaces. Thus, he set out to create a new paradigm that fosters collaboration, creativity and productivity. With a clear vision and an entrepreneurial spirit, he and his wife, Amy, founded Banyan Workspace in 2019 to offer a fresh, socially conscious perspective on shared workspaces.

*Knit V-neck gilet in two-toned dove grey geometric jacquard by Emporio Armani, Melange wool blazer and wool pants by SANDRO and watch by Zodiac Watches*

Amy Shroff stays close during our photoshoot in the space’s sumptuous library and lounge – ideal for companies to hire for their own sessions – and ably fulfils her role as Head of Creative by suggesting how her husband should pose and smile. “The whole idea of Banyan Workspace is to come to work with a smile,” he says with gusto. “It’s always a first-name basis here with an enthusiastic good morning and/or hello. We strive to provide a comfortable working environment that feels like it’s a home.”

Apple and the tree

Rasheed Shroff’s family has long been recognised in the city. His grandfather fled from Shanghai with his family during the Second World War, beginning a profound bond with Hong Kong spanning four generations. His path of success left an indelible mark on the commercial landscape and ultimately shaped the destiny of the family. For Rasheed personally, this meant a law degree at the University of Sussex in the UK, two decades in the brand and marketing corporate world, then co-founding his own brand- distribution company, Dragonfly Asia-Pacific, the year before Banyan Workspace was born.

*Knitwear top by ZEGNA and Alpha wool-twill suit jacket and trousers by SANDRO*

“We call it Banyan Workspace for a couple of reasons,” he says. “Banyan trees were historical places where merchants traded goods while traversing the old Silk Road. Both my grandfather and father ran a trading company which started with sourcing silks in China and shipping them to India, so we thought that was very analogous to us.”

Sustainable force

As a true-blooded Hong Konger with deep roots in and love of his birthplace, Shroff not only showcases the city’s spirit through the design of the co-working space but also embraces a noble cause – giving back to the community. They have officially partnered with five local non-profit organisations to date.

Companies have been drawn to the allure of the space for their offsite meetings and events, captivated by a sustainable luxury office that seems to defy convention. This served as the catalyst for the Green Office Project in 2022, a Banyan Workspace undertaking that encourages companies to embrace sustainability.

“Its purpose evolved beyond a mere educational initiative,” he explains. “This project is for companies to understand the consequences of the decisions they make every day, and to show decision-makers that viewing each decision through a sustainability lens is good for their company, their customers, their business and our planet. We would love to take our impact beyond the four walls of our workspace and inspire and support the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

Words to work by

Shroff also possesses a rare sense of discipline and drive for perfection, qualities that were born perhaps of his awareness that he has a name to live up to. In the corner of the office pantry, three placards hang on a rattan board: ‘Inspire Impact, Engage Minds, Transform Action.’

He adds: “It’s absolutely critical to be in an environment that you are comfortable in and that is conducive to being as productive as you can be. This is not about the set-up, though obviously it’s important that the technology works, whether that be the wifi, the printer or the lights.”

50 and beyond

He is entering his sixth decade and a new phase of life, but behind a youthful visage that only shows wear when a smile draws minuscule wrinkles around his brow, his humility and his honesty are what shine the most.

“Almost every interaction is an opportunity to learn and develop. The key is staying humble, being open to learning, growing, developing and being self-aware,” he says. “Setting up two distinct businesses across three countries is probably my most significant achievement career-wise. But honestly, I don’t feel we have accomplished what we set out to do yet. I am cautiously optimistic about what 2024 will bring.”

Settled into an equilibrium, Shroff appears to have a genuine enjoyment of his place in the ecosystem. His most overwhelming and rewarding job seems to be as a family man – a husband and a father of two. “Parenthood is a gift, but it is also something that nothing can prepare you for,” he shares. “It makes you want to be better and show your kids the very best that you can be, while striving to give them every opportunity to become the best version of themselves.”

Valuable support

He adds with a knowing wink: “But the young need to make their own mistakes and learn from them – finding that balance is not always very easy. My parents always encouraged us to work hard and play hard. I worked hard yes, but I played harder! “My family as well as my team are an incredible support system and they allow me to do everything that I love to do. Nothing that I do today would be possible without them,” he confesses.

It was the desire to give every child the support system they deserve that saw Shroff accept an invitation to sit on the global board of OneSky, an NGO providing early childhood care and safety environments for vulnerable children.

Space, the future frontier

There is an earnest, sometimes quivering sense of excitement in his voice when he discusses what lies ahead. His mindset retains an ethos that anything is possible. Sustainability has been a core value of the co-working movement since its inception, and while this commitment is not always easy, it is a crucial step towards creating a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

“I firmly believe that resiliency is one of the most important qualities an entrepreneur needs to have,” he stresses. “The last few years have certainly taught me that being resilient, staying in the game and putting one foot in front of the other is the only way to progress.”

Ultimately, the right blend of autonomy, resources and community lies at the heart of an empowered and happy team — one that wants to come to work, wherever that happens to be.

Interview, Text & Art Direction: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Venue: Banyan Workspace Brands: Emporio Armani, ZEGNA and SANDRO Cover: Chore jacket by ZEGNA, Neil cotton-twill suit pants by IRO and shoes by ZEGNA

KEF Listening Room: Immerse yourself in the joy of KEF’s wireless speakers at Pedder Arcade

Renowned British audio brand KEF, with its unwavering dedication to audio excellence, announces an immersive partnership with Pedder Arcade.

From today to 30 April, KEF Listening Room will be open to visitors of Hong Kong’s sanctuary for the refined shopper, and promises a captivating journey into the world of KEF’s wireless speakers.

Multi-sensory experience

Visitors will embark on a multi-sensory exploration through dedicated zones showcasing KEF’s curated collection. KEF Listening Room, Drake’s Dressing Room, and The Armoury Study all form part of this unique experience.

Rooted in craftsmanship, innovation and tradition, each brand brings its distinctive identity and heritage to the space, which will feature KEF’s signature wireless speakers throughout.

Connoisseurs seeking the finest in British design will be treated to unparalleled sound quality from a number of KEF products. Within the space, guests will get to experience LS60 Wireless, LS50 Wireless II, LSX II, the newly-released LSX II LT, Mu7 Wireless Headphones and KC62 Subwoofers.

Transformative power

“We are thrilled to partner with Pedder Arcade, a destination that embodies the same values of quality, craftsmanship, and innovation that define KEF,” says Grace Lo, KEF’s President and Head of Global Marketing, “This collaboration allows us to connect with Hong Kong’s discerning clientele and introduce them to the transformative power of our wireless collection.”

About KEF

Since 1961, KEF has firmly established itself at the forefront of audio excellence. From the early adoption of synthetic materials to the pioneering Reference Series that now determines industry standard, a foundation of technological innovation, design, and craftsmanship has led the brand to produce bar-setting products in speaker design.

Pedder Arcade

Pedder Arcade is Inspired by London’s Burlington Arcade and features a curated selection of high-end brands, art installations, and experiential spaces. Pedder Arcade is a destination for discerning shoppers who appreciate quality and craftsmanship. This is a haven of opulence and refinement nestled in the heart of Central.

Basel Blooms: Fine art flowers once more at Hong Kong’s foremost art event

Art Basel Hong Kong 2024 promises to be an extravaganza marking a return to its pre-pandemic glory years. Boosted by a huge uptick in exhibitor numbers, this year’s fair is the perfect vehicle to shine a spotlight on the region’s art scene and beyond, from collectable rediscoveries to works by contemporary practitioners. The social side of the art fest, an inspiring mingling of artists, curators, gallerists, connoisseurs and general enthusiasts, will also be back to its upbeat best within the cavernous environs of the Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Exemplified by a strong presence of galleries from Hong Kong, mainland China, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan, more than half of exhibitors operate spaces on the Asian continent. Notable galleries from Australia, New Zealand and India, among other countries, will showcase their artistic talent too. Art Basel will also present a city-wide programme of events and activities in collaboration with galleries, world-class institutions and cultural partners during show week – from 26-30 March including two preview days before the fair itself.

“Our goal is to connect guests from all around the world in our home, Hong Kong, by offering possibilities of collaboration and innovation inspired by art and artists,” says Art Basel Hong Kong Director Angelle Siyang-Le. “As the key strategic cultural hub in Asia and Asia-Pacific, the city plays a more important role than ever in bridging the evolving art landscape across regions.”

Broad strokes

To put this year’s offering into perspective, there is a 37 percent increase in exhibitor numbers compared to 2023. This equates to 243 international galleries including more than 65 names that didn’t pitch up last year, a participation level that matches numbers before Covid took its toll on the event. Galleries from 40 countries and territories across Asia, Europe, North and Latin America, the Middle East and Africa will present artworks spanning all market segments, from 20th-century masters to established contemporary artists to emerging voices that are making waves on the scene.

Organisers promise that diversity will be paramount, with textile art one of the key inclusions. In just two standouts dealing in this medium, London gallery Alison Jacques dedicates its booth to Sheila Hicks’ pioneering use of fabric and thread, and Shanghai’s Bank showcases the works of Bulgarian artist Maryn Varbanov, who influenced Chinese avant-garde.

Return to the fold

Respected names returning after a hiatus include Galerie Lelong & Co. Known for showing works by internationally established artists, the gallery was founded in Paris in 1981 by Daniel Lelong, Jacques Dupin and Jean Frémon, and opened a New York sister space four years later. Also making an appearance are Italian heavyweight Galleria d’Arte Maggiore and Kurimanzutto from Mexico.

Another returnee, India’s Experimenter, won the 2023 Frieze London Stand Prize for best gallery representation. Based on a grid concept, it showcased the abstract works of an intergenerational group of eight women artists in a perfect reflection of the passage of time. Frieze hailed Experimenter’s programme a “pace-setter” for the South Asian region.

Other notable attendees from the Indian subcontinent include Vadehra Art Gallery from New Delhi, and Tarq and Jhaveri Contemporary, both from Mumbai. Tarq will present art by Mumbai-born Sameer Kulavoor that explores the effects of the Indian megalopolis’ urban growth on its inhabitants, while Jhaveri’s space displays paintings, drawings and sculptural garlands that function as decorative devices.

New blood

A total of 25 galleries from across Asia, Europe, Africa and the Americas will join the fair for the first time. One such is Station, which debuted in Melbourne in 2011 and expanded to Sydney in 2019; it is dedicated to presenting engaging, conceptually-driven exhibitions and bringing Australian contemporary art to an international audience.

Another first-timer, Tim Van Laere Gallery, was founded in Antwerp in 1997 and represents international and emerging contemporary artists. Linseed is not only a newcomer to Art Basel Hong Kong, but also to the art world in general. Launched in 2022, the Shanghai gallery supports a new generation of forward-looking artists from a multitude of backgrounds and invites cutting-edge conversations.

Digital diversity

Digital art – highly prominent during the pandemic years – retains its important presence now the fair can resume human contact and tactile appreciation. Highlights include a presentation by Tokyo gallery Taro Nasu of works by visual and sound artist Ryoji Ikeda, and from Galerie nächst St. Stephan Rosemarie Schwarzwälder of Vienna, an AI-created film conceived by New York-based Miao Ying that was shortlisted for last year’s Sigg Prize.

Among galleries focusing on the 20th-century masters and exceptional historical works, Liang Gallery from Taipei pays tribute to the late abstract painter Hsiao Chin. Axel Vervoordt Gallery, which has spaces in both Antwerp and Hong Kong, participates in the main fair for the first time with a showcase by multi-disciplinary conceptual artist Kimsooja that combines performance, film, photographs and site-specific installation using textiles, light and sound.

Creations and curations

Supplementing the rich line-up of participants is the Discoveries section, where 22 galleries this year have been singled out to present solo works by emerging artists specifically created for the fair. Topics tackled here include urban development and the shifting nature of public space in the modern age.

Embracing 20 galleries, the Insights programme of curated projects spotlights artists from Asia-Pacific active from 1900 to the present day. First-time exhibitor √K Contemporary of Tokyo brings Nankoku Hidai, an influential figure in avant-garde 20th-century calligraphy, to the fore. Taipei gallery PTT Space shows works by the late master Shiy De-Jinn, whose oeuvre openly explored the theme of desire, testifying to his status as a queer pioneer in East Asia.

Close encounters

Last year’s Art Basel Hong Kong saw the return of all special sectors, including Kabinett, Encounters, Film and Conversations. Displayed in a separate section of selected galleries’ booths, Kabinett showcases a record 33 thematically-focused projects for 2024, focusing on modern and contemporary solo presentations from the region.

Encounters, curated for the third time by Alexie Glass-Kantor of Artspace Sydney, is dedicated to large-scale projects and spans 16 artworks, 11 of which were made especially for the fair. An off-site installation by Sydney-based artist Daniel Boyd will be on view at Pacific Place.

Free to the public, the Conversations and Film programmes give audiences a unique opportunity to partake in discussions and enjoy artists’ films in a dedicated auditorium at the Convention and Exhibition Centre. The pick of the latter is probably A New Old Play (2021) by Shenzhen-based artist and filmmaker Qiu Jiongjiong. Presented by Star Gallery of Beijing, it depicts a prominent clown reminiscing about his life, set against the backdrop of China’s tumultuous 20th-century history.

What’s on? Things to do this March in Hong Kong

March has a string of sensational experiences to keep you entertained – from amazing shopping in lantern-lit streets to world-class art and cultural events to magnificent theatre and much more besides!

Lanterns-lit

Soak up the ongoing ambience of the Year of the Dragon when strolling down Wan Chai’s popular shopping and dining street of Lee Tung Avenue made magical with hundreds of iconic red lanterns. Gleaming goldfish lanterns add extra colour to the display as they swim among the red lanterns – a beautiful touch signifying abundance. Positioned at the Central Piazza, an eight-metre-long golden dragon will further delight visitors, and limited-edition red packets stamped with the Chinese name of the avenue will be available until the early part of the month. Enjoy the vibe of a street in which East meets West.

When: Until 10 Mar

Where: Lee Tung Avenue

How much: Free

For more information: leetungavenue.com.hk

Miss Julie

August Strindberg’s masterpiece of theatre takes on a new dimension in this compelling local production adapted by British-Hong Kong playwright Amy Ng. Originally set in the seemingly more placid 19th-century Swedish countryside, the storyline exploring universal themes such as sex, power play, racial divides and social hierarchies has been reimagined into the post-war colonial Hong Kong landscape. The play follows the trials and tribulations of a mixed-race daughter from an elite family who seduces her Chinese chauffeur.

When: 1 Mar – 17 Mar

Where: Hong Kong City Hall Theatre

How much: From HK$340

For more information: hk.artsfestival.org

Fashion Access

Anyone connected to the world of fashion should consider a visit to Asia’s premier fashion accessories trade show. All sorts of accoutrements will be on display, including the latest collections of bags, footwear, gloves, scarves, small leather goods and leather garments. Many of the unsung movers and shakers in the fashion world will be present – buyers, retailers, wholesalers and other players in the mid-to-high-end range. The fair offers savvy visitors the chance to see some top-notch brands up close in Hong Kong.

When: 19 Mar – 21 Mar

Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

How much: From HK$200

For more information: aplf.com

ComplexCon

Leaving the shores of the US for the first time is the huge cultural fair known as ComplexCon. Garnering a fine reputation over recent years, it features a fusion of pop culture, music, art, food, sports, innovation and educational activities, and Hong Kong’s success in capturing this event is considered key in broadening the appeal of Hong Kong Arts Month. Expect a host of expertly curated events.

When: 22 Mar – 24 Mar

Where: AsiaWorld-Expo

How much: From HK$380

For more information: complexchinese.com

Art Basel

Widely acclaimed as the largest international celebration of arts in Hong Kong, Art Basel brings together a vast and incredibly diverse range of contemporary works over three days. It celebrates the creativity of big-name artists from the Asia-Pacific region and globally as well as those striving to make their mark. There will be galleries to explore, curated and large-scale projects to browse through and films by and about the artists to view.

When: 28 Mar – 30 Mar

Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

How much: From HK$340

For more information: artbasel.com

Art Central

Running in conjunction with Art Basel, this four-day event features an eclectic mix of artworks and programmes from some of Asia’s most inventive and inspiring galleries. Having commenced in 2015, the fair has grown in stature as the years have passed, with this edition promising to be the best; the range of exhibitors has expanded and some are taking part for the first time. The magnificent harbourfront location adds to the ambience.

When: 28 Mar – 31 Mar

Where: Central Harbourfront

How much: From HK$175

For more information: artcentralhongkong.com

Ocean Park Lunar Fiesta

Let the celebrations roll on a journey through old Hong Kong in a New Year neon-lights extravaganza. Amid traditional lion dances and drumming performances, the nostalgic ambience can be enhanced by snacks that bring the memories of yesteryear flooding back. There are plenty of other activities to keep families amused, too, as the Year of the Dragon continues to make waves at the park. Youngsters will be entertained by the Ocean 6N1 band.

When: Until 3 Mar

Where: Ocean Park

How much: From HK$498

For more information: oceanpark.com.hk

International Jewellery Show

Following the success of last year’s post-Covid exhibition, some of the biggest players in the world of gemstones and jewels gather again at a glittering trade fair that appeals to a global audience. This 40th edition of Jewellery & Gem World Hong Kong is an ideal opportunity to glean the latest developments in the sector.

When: Until 4 Mar

Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

How much: $100

For more information: hktdc.com

Legend of the Enchanted Reef

Immerse yourself in the joy of watching the underwater world come to life via the fantastic hemispherical screen of the Space Museum. This under-the-sea tale revolves around three little fish whose natural habitat is devastated by the ruthless actions of fishing trawlers. Their journey to the so-called ‘enchanted reef’ forms the basis of the plot, which is depicted in 3D glory on the dome screen utilising the latest NanoSeam technology.

When: Until 31 Mar

Where: Hong Kong Space Museum

How much: From HK$24

For more information: hk.space.museum

Fashion Conscience: Vipop founder Lenia Pérez radiates sustainability vibes while joyfully revealing her second pregnancy

Lenia Pérez is one of the best-dressed women in the city, in part because she’s so willing to try everything. “I’ve prepared a total of 19 outfits for us to play around with, but I’m not sure if some of them still fit me,” laughs the Latin American fashion entrepreneur, rubbing her four-month baby bump with just a slight touch of embarrassment.

It’s an unconventional pregnancy announcement – and a surprising moment of awkwardness for someone who photographs so well and telegraphs such confidence. Whether she’s going to the gym or the hottest parties, her style is obsessively chronicled.

Embarrassment, though, is different from regret. “I’m never afraid to try anything,” affirms Pérez, who is thrilled to be expecting her second child with husband Ziad Korban. “I think that just goes to show that there’s a moving evolution in my style. It just keeps growing” – like her baby bump – “which is kind of how I want to be in all areas of life.”

*Black Flora Deep V Maxi Dress by Daniella Batlle Earrings by Vipop*

It takes a certain sort of boldness and a certain level of shimmering magnitude to establish your own time zone, especially while being pregnant. Yet the co-founder and CEO of Vipop, a Hong Kong-based sustainable fashion brand, has done just that. It’s exactly 8:45 am on a typical Hong Kong gloomy Monday, yet Pérez is all set for a day of photoshoot and interview. Her ease and her vibrant full smile suggest this is all very normal and time really is just a construct.

From the get-go, she also expresses her opinion on maternity wear: “I’m hoping that we are able to redefine what’s considered ‘decent’ for pregnant women. I am proud of my body for the amazing things it’s doing right now. Minus the morning sickness, I think I am at my happiest. Heels during pregnancy? Go for it. Who made such rules anyways?”

Sustainable values

As a self-confessed collector, Pérez travels to fashion shows across South and Central America in search of resort-wear designers to represent, pinpointing those whom she believes will appeal to Asian customers. What started as an internet business with co-founder and fellow Venezuelan Fabiana González, now occupies a cosy white shop called Artezano by Vipop and is reaching customers in the US and Europe.

Her parents are artisans, so she has always liked fashion and handicrafts. Additionally, clothing created by Latin American designers, who historically use sustainable weaving and dyeing methods, felt appropriate for a market where ethical consciousness is growing in importance.

“Vipop brings together a community of international designers making bags, jewellery and clothing in unique designs like the ones I’m wearing,” she says. “Our designers take care of the ethical or eco-friendly values behind the pieces and we also take care of the value of each piece. So it’s this community we’re building in the new fashion industry. We’re offering new ways to be sustainable. It’s not just ‘sustainable’; it can be very fun too.”

Vipop builds partnerships based on sustainability practice. Designers and collaborators are chosen by the effort they put into one or more of the following clean fashion criteria: handmade, locally produced, carbon neutral, use of vegan or organic materials, low waste, longevity, recycled materials and fair wage.

Damage limitation

“It’s very important to put attention to how the pieces we buy are actually made, who is making them and how it affects our environment, the community around us and the planet, because we can see so much damage in the world from the fashion industry. This is something very special for me and all the team, and this is why we selected this subject to build a fashion brand and e-commerce platform.”

*Black Cher dress cut pleated skirt with top by Nabel Martins*

This combination of focused strategy with faith in humanity and the occasional flight of fancy seems a winning formula, especially when matched by an unstinting gusto for whatever challenges her fashion career or an impending new addition to the family will throw at her.

Calming vibes

Despite her hypermodern appearance, not to mention the permanent arts on her skin, her style is very traditional. As seen on her Instagram, whether it’s a friend’s wedding or a trip abroad, she creates distinct ‘vibes’ (to use her favourite phrase) for each occasion. Indeed, her process is true fashion-icon behaviour.

“We’re still right on time. I cannot emphasise more the importance of working with the right people. It will really get the job done and produce output that you want to have,” she reflects as she changes for look no.9.

Pérez seems unfazed by the fame in the fashion world she is currently experiencing. She is seemingly without ego: calm and reflective with a slightly starry professional glow that makes her the ability to inhabit someone else’s mind look easy. During and in between takes, she is compellingly unselfconscious.

“But that’s the work of it,” she shares. “In reality, you have to be aware of what you’re feeling, what the team in the room is feeling. Once the camera clicks, you have this third level of awareness – your mark, the light and which way you should be facing. And it’s like you are constantly having to juggle those three things the whole time. She pauses and adds knowingly: “Pretty much like pregnancy huh?”

Dressed to express

Fashion for her is about the moments of pure enjoyment, of just letting go to the point that she can be surprised. It represents the most acute version of fun. “Which is why I love it so much. It’s my playground. I love it,” she admits giddily.

*Emiliana pants and bared back top in paillette by Nabel Martins*

“Clothes allow us to show off our unique personalities. Many of us care about how we seem in public, which is cool and just right. But some of us experience pressure to follow the newest trends in fashion,” she reminds, throwing in a note of caution.

Mother load

One trend she is happy to embrace is her pregnancy. These days, the word ‘Mother’, without the preceding article, is present everywhere, as not just a regular word but a colloquial term and part of this generation’s slang; fans, brands and occasionally even mums themselves use it. It is also affectionately applied to prominent women who have a devoted following. And Pérez is surely mothering the fashion game.

*Blue one sleeve cut out dress by Baobab Accessories by Vipop*

“My body is going through so many changes again, but I ’ve grown to respect it so much that I look past the physical. I fully embrace it for serving a much deeper purpose, something far bigger than myself and anything I ever gave it credit for. I’m so grateful for, and amazed by, what my body is capable of,” she states, flashing a smile.

At the end of our shoot, she swaps her stilettos for platformed boots, saying with a wink: “It’s time to be more comfortable.” Whatever tomorrow brings, Lenia Pérez will have the right attitude – and look – to take it on.

Interview, Text & Art Direction: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Venue: Qura Bar – Regent Hong Kong Brands: Daniella Batlle, Baobab, Nabel Martins and Vipop

Healing Hands: The tick-tock masters who can repair all parts of your beloved watch

A watch is a very personal item and the journey to owning it can take several months. If it falters, however, modifications or repairs can be difficult, as only a handful of shops offer bespoke servicing. Watch restoration is an opportunity to bring a beloved model back to life and onto your wrist. We make the job of finding a master watchmaker to repair your wrist reward easier by curating a list of premium service centres in the city.

Classic Watch Repair

Based in Central, Classic Watch Repair is a one-stop service centre with more than 20 years of experience. The team is adept at repairing and restoring any timepiece, both mechanically and aesthetically. Besides standard watch repairs, they specialise in reviving exterior parts that are not generally covered by a brand service.

Michael Young, founder of Classic Watch Repair, is a vintage watch restoring legend. A mechanical engineer by training, he began his watch ‘fixation’ as a collector of Rolex models 40 years ago. Frustrated that Rolex wouldn’t repair or restore the cases, bracelets, dials or hands of his treasured timepieces, Young learned to do it himself. His meticulous restoration work and vintage-watch servicing have earned him a solid reputation around the world and the nickname ‘the Rolex bracelet magician’. classicwatchrepair.com

MisterChrono

Over the past 10 years, MisterChrono has made its mark through in-depth knowledge of the watchmaking industry and partnerships with watch repair and service specialists in Paris, Hong Kong and Singapore. These masters of high-quality workmanship have the necessary tools to carry out both routine maintenance and minor repairs as well as a complete overhaul of your watch. Moreover, if you are looking for specific advice, they will be able to answer your questions and guide you.

Giving an initial analysis and repair quotation as soon as you enter the shop in Central, the team offers a wide range of services from changing a battery and replacing the crown to fixing the hands or polishing the case. They recommend mechanical watches receive a full service every five years. This begins with the dismantling of the watch and the movement, followed by a thorough ultrasonic cleaning and inspection of all components and the replacement of any damaged or worn parts. The movement is then reassembled using the manufacturer’s specified oils and lubricants with a full calibration of the regulating mechanism. The watch case and bracelet are cleaned, and if requested, can be polished and refurbished. The service concludes with rigorous quality control and testing for 72 hours – including for pressure- and water resistance – and a final visual inspection of the watch. misterchrono.hk

Oriental Watch Company

As well as being a leading watch retailer, Oriental Watch Company offers a professional watch service experience. Designed and run by accordance with Swiss and German watchmaking standards, its in-house repair workshop in Sheung Wan is equipped with cutting-edge instruments including a water-resistance testing machine, a watch-movement analyser, the Chronoscope S1 high-quality watch-testing instrument and the Cyclomotion watch winder.

This abundance of outstanding hardware is utilised by staff with an average of 20 years of experience in watch repairing, with the majority having previously worked for haute horlogerie brands. Their most experienced master watchmaker has served in the industry for more than four decades. All potential restoration projects will be fully evaluated and discussed with the client before work commences. orientalwatch.com

Hong Kong Ruigang Watch Group

At the Tsim Sha Tsui flagship store of Hong Kong Ruigang Watch Group, trained watchmakers set about the task of lovingly restoring vintage timepieces. A thorough inspection of the watch movement identifies any damaged or worn parts, and should a new or replacement part not be available, they will refurbish the old part or machine a new part from scratch. Their dedicated dial department offers varying degrees of dial restoration, from adding luminosity to hour indexes and hands to repainting the entire watch face.

Hong Kong Ruigang also specialises in professional polishing and finishing to a watch’s original factory specifications. Going beyond normal polishing on a buffing machine, their technical polishing service using specialised tools results in a crisp edge that, in essence, is a reshaping of the case. For owners of popular models like Rolex or Omega, replacing scratched or damaged sapphire crystal isn’t usually a problem, but for vintage, bespoke and small- production watches, precious new glass can be custom-made to fit. They also undertake steel- and gold-band restorations by carefully removing each link and rebuilding it before re-assembling the bracelet. mbwxzx.hk

Prices for the services described here vary according to the intricacy of the restoration and the bespoke technicalities required by individual timepieces. Consultations can be booked online, although walk-in clients are also entertained. These watch-repair companies are, in short, trusted doctors for your cherished chronometers.

Madam Butterflies: Novel Fineries’ founder June Lau frames fading art heritage into new glories

First, she won a scholarship to study product design engineering at Loughborough University in England, and it was there that she tasted early success – landing a James Dyson Foundation bursary to help get the medical device she conceived up and running. Having founded a product design consultancy, Above Blue Design, back in Hong Kong in 2015, her wearable art company, Novel Fineries, sprang into life the following year after she won a design competition held by luxury retailer Lane Crawford.

The Novel Fineries flagship store is now ensconced in a wing of the luxurious Peninsula Hotel, from where she talks animatedly about how her roots nurtured her love for the beauty and aesthetics of products and accessories.

Sleep saver

That Lau has achieved so much just a decade out of university is perhaps down to oodles of self- confidence, which she attributes to going off to boarding school aged just eight. She believes the experience toughened her up.

At Loughborough, she learnt how to design products as a whole, from coding the internal electronics, to building mould tools for mass production, to learning about aesthetics and the research process. Flashing one of her radiant smiles, she admits that possibly part of the attraction of this career was wanting to “save the world” with her designs. Her award-winning final- year design project was a product that positively conditions people with severe eczema not to scratch during sleep.

Design over fashion

Emanating verve and fresh elegance in a fetching green outfit, the youthful entrepreneur describes herself as a “go-getter” who loves to travel and absorb other cultures as she knows this is potentially a rich seam of artistic creativity.

Born in New York City and educated in the UK, Lau has done fashion-design jobs around the world, but found the fashion lifecycle too short and not sustainable; the lure of product design was more compelling.

After graduation, she returned to her family roots in Hong Kong. Within a couple of years, she was teaching CAD (computer-aided design) while working part-time with Above Blue, designing products for big brands as well as startups.

Art in the pocket

It was her independent-minded spirit and willingness to explore new artistic avenues ingrained since childhood that played a massive part in her big breakthrough – the creation of Novel Fineries.

At the time she was travelling to China a lot to visit factories. “One time in Suzhou, I saw a group of ladies on the side of the street doing double- sided embroidery and soon became friends with them,” she says, explaining that she was fascinated by the intricacy of their handiwork, a time-honoured technique that produces identical stitching strokes on both sides of the silk.

Thinking it would make an original gift for her then-boyfriend, she asked the women to make a piece in her own design. It featured butterflies in the form of pocket art.

Soon after, Lau sent these embroidered butterflies to the Lane Crawford Creative Call Out – a competition for young local designers. “We could go and pitch our product to the buyers and get a chance to be selected and sold in their stores,” she says. “I took along this pocket art and we won. And the next thing I know, they wanted to put our products in their stores and the Hong Kong government included us in design tradeshows abroad. So that was when Novel Fineries really started.”

Boyfriend butterflies

Each piece of her pocket art represents a butterfly species through the use of exquisite embroidery and the exact colour of paint, with every detail of the insect painstakingly replicated including the pattern of the veins and the velvety-fur textures on its wings. “Each species can only be produced once because the double-sided embroidery can only be done by one person, and I do the silk hand- painting myself,” she notes.

“To mimic the veins and transparency of the butterfly wings to the best of my ability, I studied to become a lepidopterist, learning where they feed and how they migrate. Each butterfly has its own origin story to share and its unique traits in nature.”

Novel Fineries’ first collection of Pocket Art spans 50 species of Amazonian butterflies. “I used to love the saying ‘You give me butterflies’ [when thinking of a loved one],” says Lau of their inspiration. “This is the whole concept of the pocket art. It is worn on the left-hand side of the suit over the heart. And so, as a gift, it’s a little resemblance of my love in a suit jacket.”

She regards Pocket Art as one of her best creations to date. “It is a piece that has no lifecycle, it follows no trend; it is a symbol of how Novel Fineries blossomed in colour and the finest materials,” she says.

It serves as a contemporary showcase for Su embroidery, a 2,000-year-old heritage art form originating from Suzhou, China, renowned for the elegance, rich colour and variety of its silk-thread stitching. This double-sided stitching process is also used for the Pin Art collection of handmade butterflies astride a gold pin that fastens behind the lapel.

Heritage mission

“China possesses so much knowledge and hidden artisans in heritage art forms and I became obsessed with searching for lost art and these people who mastered the craft,” says Lau, who reveals that 30 percent of the company’s profits is given to training the next generation of artisans.

In some ways, it has become her mission to preserve fading art forms around the world. “Each piece at Novel Fineries is a union of lost heritage craft integrated with my design ideas. Much of the craft we use is diminishing, lost even through time.”

Art and nature

All of Novel’s designs are handmade, handcrafted and unique. They are influenced by nature and integrate heritage art forms. “The Obi Knot uses untouched silks from 200-300 years ago, the threads were hand-loomed and tied by Obi masters in Kyoto. The Serpentine Knot uses Italian leather-braiding techniques, and the fine jewellery is hand-carved from wax,” she says of her collections of bow ties and snake-head-tipped braids that can adorn the neck or waist.

Lau creates a world of beauty and magic that comes to life. She is particularly inspired by butterflies and snakes because they have the ability to morph and transform into a stronger self.

No doubt there are many more chapters of inspired creations to come from Novel Fineries. “Novel means a book, right? So, a book of many chapters, and in each chapter, we talk about a different heritage art form,” she states proudly. “I hope Novel Fineries is a storybook that brings joy to the people who read it and wear it.”

Interview and Text by: Neil Dolby Art Direction: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Venue: The Peninsula Boutique & Cafe Brands: Magda Butrym, Safiyaa, Chanel & Off-White

Encore Values: Get front and centre for the Hong Kong Arts Festival, shaper of the cultural landscape

The Hong Kong Arts Festival (HKAF) has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural scene for over half a century. Celebrating its 52nd edition this year, it continues to captivate audiences with diverse and world-class performances. The month-long cultural feast will see more than 1,400 outstanding international and local artists delivering over 150 performances of music, theatre, dance, opera and more. Additionally, Festival Plus as well as outreach and education events account for another 350 engaging arts activities.

The festival proper begins with the classics, as the Bavarian State Opera performs Richard Strauss’s 1912 opera Ariadne auf Naxos on 22 February, and closes on 22 March with a modern ballet, A Sigh of Love, devised by a Sino- French creative team for the Shanghai Ballet. As Kingman Lo, Vice-Chairman of the Hong Kong Arts Festival Society, says: “The 52nd edition of the HKAF will continue our legacy of offering a broad spectrum of the world’s best artists and performances, enticing the Hong Kong audience with an irresistible blend of timeless classics and groundbreaking new works.”

One of the key highlights of this year’s festival is the appearance of five-time Grammy Award- winner Angelique Kidjo. Over the course of a remarkable career spanning more than 40 years, the powerhouse diva has introduced the world to the essence of Africa. For her outstanding musical accomplishments and efforts, she was most recently granted the Polar Music Prize. With the promise of an evening filled with joyful music and the beautiful sounds of the African diaspora, Kidjo’s Mother Nature tour is now making its way to Hong Kong.

HKAF Executive Director Flora Yu also underscores the importance of showcasing contemporary pieces at the annual festival. “We make it our mission to introduce to Hong Kong audiences a fascinating line-up of daring and innovative new works which hold the promise of becoming canonical works of tomorrow,” she says. “In addition, we continue to present a variety of brilliant local works featuring some of the best Hong Kong artists.”

By putting the future on the canvas of the past, Van Gogh in Me is an immersive audio-visual experience that significantly pushes the limits of the conventional concert experience. Van Gogh and Klimt’s brushstrokes are transformed into a state-of-the-art performance experience by the Netherlands Chamber Choir’s resonant purity of sounds and emotions combined with real-time technology.

Back at Full Volume

This year’s festival marks a return to form after several lean cultural years that left Hong Kong arts enthusiasts starved of live international performances. “We are pleased to be able to present our 52nd Festival on a large scale after emerging from a three-year pandemic and staging the previous 51st Festival in semi-recovery mode,” notes Yu. This ramp-up is reflected in the HKAF’s overall budget which is anticipated to be about HK$150 million in the 2023-2024 financial year.

The festival has historically relied heavily on fundraising, and its goal for 2024 is that contributions and pledges from institutional and individual donors and benevolent foundations will account for about 48% of its total revenue. The Hong Kong Jockey Club, for example, has consistently supported the event since its inception. A further 25% of funds will come from the box office, while a recurring subvention of HK$18.89 million from the Hong Kong Government equates to about 12% of the yearly revenue. A possible additional government grant to match donations and sponsorship, and other revenue streams will comprise the remaining 15%.

Lasting Legacy

The Hong Kong Arts Festival was founded in 1973 with the aim of showcasing exceptional artistic talent from around the world while nurturing local creativity. Over the years, it has become one of Asia’s premier arts events, consistently attracting renowned international artists and troupes and earning a reputation for excellence.

By bringing together artists from diverse cultures and genres, the festival has fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas and artistic collaborations. It has encouraged local artists to push boundaries and experiment with new forms of expression, leading to the emergence of unique and innovative performances. Moreover, the festival’s influence extends beyond its annual program to actively engage with the community. Through educational initiatives, workshops and masterclasses, it nurtures the next generation of artists and cultivates an appreciation for the arts among students and the general public. These efforts have contributed to the growth of Hong Kong’s artistic ecosystem and the development of a discerning audience.

Expanded Reach

Running alongside the main performances is the Festival Plus program that aims to enrich the experience of culture buffs from all walks of life. A diverse range of activities like talks, masterclasses and meet-the-artist sessions in performance venues and community locations boosts audience engagement. Highlights this year include a backstage tour of the Ariadne auf Naxos production as well as a fun-filled exhibition titled Unboxing Chinese Opera. In addition, there are outreach events and education programmes targeted at students to foster the younger generation’s interest in, and knowledge of, the arts.

Founded in 1992, the Young Friends of the Hong Kong Arts Festival initiative offers a variety of seminars, lectures and backstage visits to full-time students up to the age of 25, reaching a remarkable 820,000 budding arts lovers thus far. Members of Young Friends can experience two chosen performances and rehearsals during the festival.

In an effort to make the arts more accessible, the HKAF has expanded its presence across multiple venues throughout Hong Kong. Beyond the traditional theatre spaces, performances are held in parks, community centres and heritage sites. This approach aims to bring the arts closer to the public, breaking down barriers and reaching audiences who may not typically attend formal concerts or plays.

Embracing the Future

Organisers are focused on ensuring HKAF’s continued relevance and accessibility to the public by embracing new technologies and formats. Key initiatives include expanding the festival’s digital presence and incorporating digital elements like virtual reality experiences and immersive installations into its programming. Live streaming, on-demand performances and interactive online platforms enable individuals who may be unable to attend in person or prefer the convenience of experiencing the arts from their own homes to engage with the festival offerings.

With a storied past and a vision for the future, the Hong Kong Arts Festival continues to shape the artistic landscape of Hong Kong. As the curtain rises on the 52nd edition, it remains an indispensable platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, exciting audiences and inspiring generations to come.