HONG KONG, CHINA - MediaOutReach - 21 January 2019 - The West Kowloon CulturalDistrict Authority (WKCDA) announced the opening of the first landmark performing arts venue, the XiquCentre, at the West Kowloon Cultural District on 20 January 2019. Conveniently located at the junction of CantonRoad and Austin Road West in Tsim Sha Tsui, the Xiqu Centre is designed to be aworld-class platform for the promotion and development of Cantonese opera and othergenres of xiqu (Chinese traditional theatre).

Its design, inspired by traditionalChinese lanterns, blends traditional and contemporary elements to reflect theevolving nature of the art form. Stepping through the main entrance, shaped toresemble parted stage curtains, visitors are led directly into a lively atriumwith a raised podium and space for a variety of performances and exhibitions. The eight-storey building also houses the Grand Theatre, Tea HouseTheatre, SeminarHall, eight studios, and a variety of retail,food and beverage and leisure facilities.

Dr Peter Lam, Chairmanof the Hong Kong Tourism Board said, "Hong Kong offers a mix of new and oldculture, and xiqu, which is on the UNESCO Representative List of the IntangibleCultural Heritage of Humanity, plays a pivotal role in heightening Hong Kong'sdestination charm. The opening of the Xiqu Centre will also mark a big leap forwardin establishing Hong Kong as an international arts and cultural hub, expandingthe city's appeal to a wider audience."

Following the openingceremony, the WKCDA will present the Cantonese operaclassic The Reincarnation of Red Plum, under the curation of Cantoneseopera great Dr Pak Suet-sin. During the Lunar New Year, the Hong Kong Cantonese Opera Chamber of Commerce will host a Spring Festival Showcase. The three-month Opening Season will be concluded in March with a master selection of excerpts from award-winning artists.

At the Tea House Theatre, CantoneseOpera and Tea, curated by Cantonese opera virtuoso Law Ka-ying, will introduce the art form to audiences new to traditional Chinese theatre, offering an intimate viewingexperience, with traditional tea and dim sum served during the performance.

Along with xiqu performances and the screening of iconic xiqu films, visitorscan join a 60-minute guided tour to explore thefacilities, learn about the architectural and design features, and discover fascinating facts about the rich history of the art ofxiqu.