Heritage in style

If you have passed by the West Kowloon Cultural District you will have undoubtedly seen the architectural marvel that is the Xiqu Centre, designed by Canadian studio Bing Thom Architects (now Revery Architecture) in collaboration with local firm Ronald Lu & Partners.

The building is a visually stunning landmark welcoming visitors to Hong Kong's arts district with its dramatic curvilinear facade and reinterpretation of the customary Chinese Moon Gate motif.

This performance venue is dedicated to promoting the rich heritage of xiqu - classical Chinese opera. The primary genre of indigenous Chinese theater, xiqu is a vivid art form known for its colorful costumes and face paint, elaborate movement and lively mix of vocals, martial arts and drums. Xiqu originated as early as the third century and has about 360 forms.

Cantonese opera was the first item in Hong Kong to be included in 2009 on the Unesco Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The innovative arts center features two outdoor sky gardens with panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, the intimate Tea House Theatre, and the main attraction: the suspended Grand Theatre.

It has become a popular venue for locals and visitors from all over the world as envisioned by its chief architect, the Hong Kong-born Bing Thom.

Some events currently being held at the Xiqu Centre include the Tea House Theatre Experience, a narrated performance aimed at introducing new audiences to Cantonese opera, Music After Work, presenting live jazz and other musical genres every Thursday evening, and Music in the Atrium, featuring free weekend concerts.

The Xiqu Centre is a world-class performing arts venue that embraces Chinese cultural heritage in a state-of-the-art, contemporary space.

Check out what's going on at: www.westkowloon.hk/en/whats-on/current-forthcoming/event-type/highlights

Bernard Charnwut Chan is chairman of Tai Kwun Culture & Arts Co Ltd.

standard@bernardchan.com