Lyric theater complex set for 2026 finish

Wallis Wang

The lyric theater complex at the West Kowloon Cultural District is on track for completion by 2026.

In announcing the news, the chief executive of the district authority, Betty Fung Ching Suk-yee, emphasized the district's commitment to enhancing transport connections with neighboring areas.

During a consultation session on the project's progress held yesterday, Fung outlined the complex's features.

Located east of the M+ museum, it will include a 1,450-seat lyric theater, a 600-seat medium theater and a 270-seat studio theater.

The complex will also house various rehearsal facilities and a resident company center, providing administrative and rehearsal spaces for arts groups.

"Construction is currently 70 percent complete," Fung said. "The main structure has been finalized, with the skylight installation in the atrium and the external glass curtain wall's steel components under way."

Interior renovations and the installation of glass and metal finishes on several floors have also commenced.The building is being outfitted with an electrical and mechanical system, with the electric power company laying cables for electricity supply. Furthermore, waterproofing work for the rooftop plant room is expected to be finished by the end of the year.

In terms of infrastructure, Fung said the government and the WKCDA are focused on improving connectivity.

Projects completed include pedestrian paths along Museum Drive and Austin Road - a footbridge at Artist Square - and parking on Austin Road West.

Also, a 1.5-kilometer underpass at West Kowloon's integrated basement is being developed in phases.

To enhance maritime access, a southern landing facility for vessels is also under construction, slated for completion in the latter half of next year.

Fung said the district saw a 42 percent rise in revenue during the 2023/24 fiscal year, with its deficit falling from HK$718 million in 2022/23 to HK$578 million.

In another initiative, the Hong Kong Palace Museum has launched a second round of free admission days for students, allowing 4,000 students to visit a special exhibition at no cost on November 23 and 24. Registration for the tickets opens today through Cityline on a first-come, first-served basis, with each student eligible to register for up to four tickets.