Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Speech by SCST at Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum+ 2025 – Ministerial Panel (English only)
Honourable ministers, heads of delegations, Consul Generals, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon. Just now I was so eager to welcome you that I almost jumped on stage myself. On behalf of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), I would like to extend our warmest welcome to all of you to the Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum+ (ACCF+) 2025. May I take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to Mr Gao Zheng, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the People’s Republic of China, who will be delivering a speech for us in a short moment.
This year’s ACCF+ has received an unprecedented participation of senior delegations from 17 countries in the region, with five of the countries sending delegations to join this Forum for the first time. Your active participation and unwavering support not only sustains the continued success of this Forum, but also reaffirms Hong Kong’s unique position as an international hub for arts and culture, as well as the “super connector” for bridging countries across Asia and beyond, for meaningful cultural exchanges.
The theme of this year’s Forum is “Connect, Create, Engage: Bridging Cultures for All”. I trust you would agree with me that this is something that we, as cultural ministers and government leaders, need to seriously contemplate at this point in time. The world has undergone rapid and vigourous changes since the last ACCF held in 2022, and these changes are multifaceted, especially when we are now entering a volatile age of geopolitical tension and tariff wars. What impacts the arts and cultural development of a place most is undoubtedly the amplified diversity through technology. We should all recognise that technological advancement is something inevitable, so instead of resisting it, we should adopt a people-oriented approach to embrace it. And to achieve this, my strategy is to connect more with people, to create more for people and to engage more people. After all, culture is from people, and is about people.
Situated right in the heart of Asia, with a convergence of diverse cultures and global connections, Hong Kong is blessed with unique advantages to play the important role as a “super connector” between China, our motherland, and the rest of the world. With the clear support in China’s National 14th Five‑Year Plan, we have been striving to develop Hong Kong into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges. Together with the competitive edge in the commercial sector, Hong Kong is also the largest art trading centre in Asia. All these have been written on the name card of Hong Kong now. We will surely work hard to make our name card more shiny and promote our strengths, but more importantly, we will make good use of these attributes to build connections with our friends in the region and the rest of the world. This is why Hong Kong is taking a leadership role in hosting this renowned event once again, and presenting various large-scale forums and summits, such as the Museum Summit organised last month by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department in partnership with The Guimet ‑ National Museum of Asian Arts in France, which received a record-high total registration of over 7 000 participants. One-third of them were non-Hong Kong registrants, from 39 countries. These achievements boost not only our confidence in consolidating our role, but Hong Kong’s attractiveness to draw in new arts and cultural ideas and collaboration opportunities. As a melting pot of Chinese and Western cultures, Hong Kong’s potential could only be fully unleashed with the constant stimuli from the rest of the world.
Good connections is a solid foundation. With it, we can create more for our people. For the sake of arts and cultural development in Hong Kong, my priorities now go to creating space, opportunities, and more importantly an ecosystem. The cultural landscape in Hong Kong is much broadened with the full operation of the world-class West Kowloon Cultural District and the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Sports Park which was opened last month. The recent Coldplay concert hosting over 200 000 audience members coming from all over the world is a strong testimony of Hong Kong’s strong capability in staging world-class events. So, we will definitely work hard to make good use of the space with sufficient quality content.
Apart from attracting mega events and world-class artists to Hong Kong, we will also create opportunities for our home-grown artists and talent to shine. On this, we are taking bold steps to develop new initiatives that provide such a platform, an example of which is the inaugural Hong Kong Performing Arts Expo (HKPAX) launched in 2024 that brought together arts institutions and practitioners from around the world. The HKSAR Government has already committed to supporting the second edition of HKPAX in the 2025-26 Budget Speech. The Forum today will undoubtedly serve as another precious platform in connecting partners, fostering exchanges and co-operation, and engaging cultural communities with constructive and inspirational thoughts and initiatives.
Currently, Hong Kong is home to a number of globally acclaimed galleries, auction houses and art fairs. Hong Kong’s low tax rate and thriving art fairs have attracted art lovers from around the world to participate in Hong Kong’s art trading events. These qualities have contributed to the emergence of Hong Kong’s art trading and auction market, making Hong Kong one of the world’s top three art trading centres. As you know, Art Basel Hong Kong has developed into a prominent international event for visual arts since its debut in Hong Kong in 2013.
The advancement in infrastructure and enrichment of platforms have worked together to create a more pluralistic cultural environment, allowing space and conditions for industry building and the integrated development of culture, sports and tourism. The achievements did not happen by accident. This is one of the four strategic directions in the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development that we promulgated in November 2024 to enhance the ecosystem for the arts, culture and creative industries. Along this direction, we will continue to improve infrastructure, promote cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaborations, nurture talent, and more importantly, to collaborate with all sectors of society for the better future of arts and cultural development.
Very soon, my dear friends, you will be sharing your constructive and inspirational experiences and opinions for fostering arts and cultural growth at this Ministerial Panel. I look forward to learning from the immense interflow of ideas and insightful discussions that will ensue. On behalf of the Government of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, I would like to once again express my heartfelt gratitude for your honourable presence at ACCF+ 2025. Your participation and contribution is deeply meaningful to us and to the enhancement of people-to-people bonding in the region.
Thank you very much.
Issued at HKT 16:45
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Unemployment and underemployment statistics for January – March 2025
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
According to the latest labour force statistics (i.e. provisional figures for January – March 2025) released today (April 22) by the Census and Statistics Department (C&SD), the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 3.2% in January – March 2025, same as that in December 2024 – February 2025. The underemployment rate also remained unchanged at 1.1% in the two periods.
Comparing January – March 2025 with December 2024 – February 2025, movements in the unemployment rate (not seasonally adjusted) in different industry sectors varied. Relatively notable increases were observed in the information and communications sector, social work activities sector, professional and business services sector (excluding cleaning and similar activities), and construction sector. Movements in the underemployment rate in different industry sectors also varied, but the magnitudes were generally not large.
Total employment decreased by around 16 800 from 3 709 500 in December 2024 – February 2025 to 3 692 700 in January – March 2025. Over the same period, the labour force also decreased by around 5 800 from 3 821 300 to 3 815 500.
The number of unemployed persons (not seasonally adjusted) increased by around 11 100 from 111 700 in December 2024 – February 2025 to 122 800 in January – March 2025. Over the same period, the number of underemployed persons also increased by around 2 000 from 40 700 to 42 700.
Commentary
Commenting on the latest unemployment figures, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, said, “The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stayed low at 3.2% in January – March 2025, same as December 2024 – February 2025. The underemployment rate also remained unchanged at 1.1%. The labour force and total employment declined further to 3 815 500 and 3 692 700 respectively from the preceding three-month period.”
The unemployment rates of various sectors showed different movements in January – March 2025 compared with the preceding three-month period, with increases recorded in sectors such as the information and communications sector, the social work activities sector, the professional and business services sector (excluding cleaning and similar activities), and the construction sector; while declines were observed in the transportation sector and the insurance sector.
Looking ahead, Mr Sun said, “The increasingly uncertain external environment due to escalated trade conflicts may weigh on hiring sentiment in some sectors. Nonetheless, the continued growth of the Mainland economy, supported by the Central Government’s boosting policies, alongside the SAR Government’s various policy measures to continuously promote economic growth and support enterprises, are expected to provide support to labour demand. The SAR Government will stay vigilant and continue to closely monitor the labour market situation.”
Further information
The unemployment and underemployment statistics were compiled from the findings of the continuous General Household Survey.
In the survey, the definitions used in measuring unemployment and underemployment follow closely those recommended by the International Labour Organization. The employed population covers all employers, self-employed persons, employees (including full-time, part-time, casual workers, etc.) and unpaid family workers. Unemployed persons by industry (or occupation) are classified according to their previous industry (or occupation).
The survey for January – March 2025 covered a sample of some 26 000 households or 68 000 persons, selected in accordance with a scientifically designed sampling scheme to represent the population of Hong Kong. Labour force statistics compiled from this sample represented the situation in the moving three-month period of January to March 2025.
Data on labour force characteristics were obtained from the survey by interviewing each member aged 15 or over in the sampled households.
Statistical tables on the latest labour force statistics can be downloaded at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/scode200.html). More detailed analysis of the labour force characteristics is given in the “Quarterly Report on General Household Survey” which is published four times a year. The latest issue of the report contains statistics for the quarter October – December 2024 while the next issue covering the quarter January – March 2025 will be available by end May 2025. Users can also browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1050001&scode=200).
For enquiries about labour force statistics, please contact the General Household Survey Section (3) of the C&SD (Tel: 2887 5508 or email: ghs@censtatd.gov.hk).
India Stakes Claim to the Top Leadership position at International Telecom Union (ITU)
Source: Government of India
India Stakes Claim to the Top Leadership position at International Telecom Union (ITU)
Ms. M. Revathi Nominated as Indian Candidate for the post of Director at ITU’s Radiocommunication Bureau
Posted On: 22 APR 2025 12:13PM by PIB Delhi
India has nominated Ms. M. Revathi, Joint Wireless Advisor at the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), as its candidate for Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This marks India’s most significant bid in decades to influence global radio spectrum governance.
A specialized UN agency based in Geneva, the ITU ensures that the world’s communication systems work together, safely, securely, and fairly. The Radiocommunication Bureau of the ITU regulates the global radio frequencies and satellite orbits—crucial for 5G, 6G, space broadband, disaster response, managing these finite resources. As Director, Ms. Revathi would play a central role in shaping next-gen radiocommunication standards and ensuring equitable spectrum access.
Her candidacy reflects India’s vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and its push for inclusive digital growth, particularly benefiting developing nations. If elected, she would become the first woman and the first representative from ITU Regions E (Asia/Australasia) and D (Africa) to lead the Bureau—representing more than half the world’s population.
With nearly 30 years of experience in spectrum and satellite orbit management, Ms. Revathi is widely recognized for pioneering regulatory innovations. She currently serves on the ITU’s Radio Regulations Board, advocating global equity in spectrum use.
India’s leadership in global telecom was also underscored by its successful hosting of the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) in Oct 2024 in New Delhi, attended by the highest ever 3,700 delegates from 150+ countries. The adoption of eight landmark Resolutions at WTSA 2024 highlights India’s growing role in shaping the digital future.
About ITU:
ITU is the United Nations specialized agency for digital technologies (ICTs). The Organization is made up of a membership of 194 Member States and more than 1000 companies, universities and international and regional organizations. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and with regional offices on every continent, ITU is the oldest agency in the UN family – connecting the world since the dawn of the telegraph in 1865.
ITU coordinates the global telecom systems through its three sectors: ITU-T (Standardization), ITU-D (Development), and ITU-R (Radiocommunication). The Radiocommunication Bureau manages the global radio-frequency spectrum and satellite orbit resources, ensuring countries and technologies (like 5G, aviation, space missions, etc.) don’t interfere with one another. This coordination is crucial for everything from mobile networks to GPS, weather satellites, and broadcasting.
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Samrat : pibcomm[at]gmail[dot]com
(Release ID: 2123374) Visitor Counter : 124
Speech by SCST at welcoming lunch of Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum+ 2025 (English only)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Speech by SCST at welcoming lunch of Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum+ 2025 (English only)
Honourable ministers, heads of delegations, Consul Generals, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon! And welcome to Hong Kong! Welcome to the Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum+ 2025!
The Asia Cultural Co-operation Forum (ACCF) was first initiated in Hong Kong in 2003. Having spanned over 20 years and entering its 13th edition this year, the ACCF has developed into a renowned G-to-G (government to government) platform for cultural exchange and co-operation at ministerial level in Asia. This year, we have added the plus (“+”) sign to the name of the Forum. This is because, riding on the success of previous editions of the ACCF, we have expanded the coverage of participating countries this year. Apart from inviting more participants from within Asia, we have also invited our friends from the Belt and Road countries as well as those beyond Asia to participate, in the hope of further enhancing cultural exchange and connection amongst participants.
The result is that I have both the privilege and honour to welcome an unprecedentedly strong cast of over 100 representatives from 22 countries to the ACCF+ 2025, with delegations from 17 countries joining us, here in Hong Kong! I am also excited to know that five of these delegations are joining the ACCF for the very first time. Welcome again!
Equally important, we are very happy to welcome representatives from seven cultural units of various provinces and cities of China, our motherland, including the Macao Special Administration Region. Compared to the last edition of the ACCF held towards the end of 2022, which was affected by the pandemic, and some friends in the region could not make it to the Forum physically, we have now fully returned to normalcy, and it is the best time for us to get together, rekindle connections, create new collaborative opportunities, and engage in meaningful dialogues for the furtherance of cultural development in our community and in the region.
With the above in mind, we set the theme of this year’s Forum as “Connect, Create, Engage: Bridging Cultures for All”, underlining the Forum’s significance in connecting diverse cultures in the region, inspiring creativity and empowering our cultural community. Over the past two years, we have all made tremendous efforts in reviving the arts and cultural sector in our respective community, which was hard hit by the pandemic. At the same time, the advancement in digital technology and its impacts on people interaction means that arts and cultural development ahead is now full of challenges and uncertainties. This week’s Forum provides excellent opportunity of face-to-face interaction to connect and collaborate to tackle the evolving challenges. As cultural administrators, our roles are of vital importance and a platform for us to meet and exchange is particularly meaningful at this juncture.
Our fruitful journey of connection, creation and engagement begins with this welcoming lunch. In the coming two days, we are excited to present an array of fantastic programmes, including the ministerial panel this afternoon, tonight’s gala dinner, plenary sessions, and insightful visits to renowned facilities such as the Hong Kong Palace Museum and M+ in the West Kowloon Cultural District. I know some of you have already visited the Hong Kong Museum of Arts and our unique art space in North Point called Oi!. Through these carefully curated programmes, we hope to showcase to you Hong Kong’s latest cultural landscape, and I hope that you will be fully immersed in the cultural vibrancy of Hong Kong, which will further inspire ideas to cultivate the enrichment and growth of arts and culture for our respective community.
Let us join hands and turn this Forum into a beacon of cultural enlightenment. Not only do I look forward to learning from the enriching discussions at the Forum, I hope to start our dialogues so that we will meet again soon in Hong Kong, or elsewhere in your country. I wish you all a pleasant and fruitful stay in Hong Kong. Meanwhile, please enjoy this welcoming lunch, as well as the performances with rich Cantonese characteristics from our local artists. Thank you and bon appétit!
Issued at HKT 14:14
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38th Meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology (CABA) to be Held on April 23 at Bharat Mandapam
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 22 APR 2025 11:31AM by PIB Delhi
The Archaeological Survey of India will be hosting the 38th meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology (CABA) on the 23rd of April, Wednesday, at the Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
The Board was formed in 1945 by the Government of India with the intention of fostering strong ties between Archaeological Survey of India with Indian universities, academic institutions and State Governments for conducting archaeological researches.
In every three years, the Board is re-constituted through a Gazette notification after the approval of the Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Culture, Government of India, who also serves as the Chairman of the CABA.
The 37th meeting of CABA was held on 14.06.2022 under the Chairpersonship of the then Minister of Culture, Govt. of India, Shri G. Kishan Reddy.
The 38th meeting of CABA will discuss the resolutions/suggestions received from Members of the Advisory Board and the action taken for the resolutions/suggestions during the previous meeting.
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Sunil Kumar Tiwari
(Release ID: 2123363) Visitor Counter : 128
Over 5,000 runners take part in maiden soldierathon at Army Hospital (R&R) in a fitting tribute to brave soldiers
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 22 APR 2025 11:21AM by PIB Delhi
Over 5,000 runners came together at Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi on April 20, 2025 for the first edition of soldierathon ‘Run for Soldiers and Run with Soldiers’ – a fitting tribute to the brave heroes of the Armed Forces. Jointly organised by Army Hospital (R&R) and Fitistan – Ek Fit Bharat, the event brought together veterans, soldiers, civilians, students and fitness enthusiasts in a celebration of unity and national pride.
The Soldierathon featured three race categories – 10 km timed run, 5 km fun run, and a 3 km walk – all designed to encourage mass participation and inclusivity. Runners shared the track with Indian soldiers, drawing inspiration from their discipline, determination, and spirit of service.
The event was officially flagged-off by Governor of Mizoram General (Dr) VK Singh (Retd) along with the Chief of the Naval Staff; Vice Chief of the Army Staff; Director General Armed Forces Medical Services; General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area; DGMS (Navy); DGMS (Air) and Commandant, Army Hospital (R&R) amidst an atmosphere filled with patriotic fervour and emotional tributes.
The event served a larger purpose – raising funds to support the Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre in Kirkee, Pune, which provides specialised care, therapy, and support for soldiers injured in the line of duty. The overwhelming response reinforced the shared commitment to give back to those who are selflessly serving the nation.
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SR/Savvy
(Release ID: 2123362) Visitor Counter : 5
The 6th edition of India Steel, a premier biennial International Exhibition-cum Conference on the steel sector, to be held from April 24 to 26, in Mumbai
Source: Government of India
Posted On: 21 APR 2025 8:19PM by PIB Bengaluru
The 6th edition of India Steel, a premier biennial International Exhibition-cumConference on the steel sector, will be held from April 24 to 26, 2025, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai.
Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will address the event on April 24 via video conferencing, in the presence of several dignitaries, including Union Ministers and Chief Ministers of three States. Organized by the Ministry of Steel, India Steel 2025 will bring together global stakeholders to discuss key issues such as growth strategies, sustainability in steel production, resilience in a changing global economy, and the role of innovation and digital technologies in enhancing competitiveness.
The event will witness high-level participation from the Centre, underscoring the strategic role of steel in realizing the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Among the dignitaries expected to attend are Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways, Shri Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister of New and Renewable Energy, Shri G. Kishan Reddy, Union Minister of Coal, and Shri Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma, Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries. The event will also witness participation of dignitaries from States Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, and Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Chief Minister of Odisha.
These leaders will preside over key sessions, reflecting steel’s significance to India’s economic and industrial strategy and emphasizing steel’s cross-sectoral importance. Senior officials from the Government of India, including Secretaries from the Ministries of Steel, Coal, and Electronics & IT (MeitY), will lead important discussions, further driving the sector’s growth and strategic direction. Global industry leaders and foreign dignitaries, including the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of Russia and Ambassadors of Australia, Mozambique, and Mongolia, will participate, enhancing international collaboration in the steel sector.
Since its inception in 2013, India Steel Expo has grown into a leading platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and equipment, fostering strategic industry dialogues, and enabling global networking. This year’s edition is expected to draw professionals from across the world, including those from construction, oil and gas, and engineering sectors, who are keen to promote their services, forge business partnerships, and align with evolving market trends. Hon’ble Union Steel Minister Shri H.D. Kumaraswamy has warmly invited stakeholders from across the steel and allied sectors to participate in India Steel 2025 and urged the entire fraternity to join the event in large numbers and contribute to making it a resounding success.
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(Release ID: 2123288) Visitor Counter : 73
Special traffic and transport arrangements for Kai Tak Sports Park concert from April 24 to 27
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Special traffic and transport arrangements for Kai Tak Sports Park concert from April 24 to 27
| Type(3) Cross-boundary coach services
The KTSP Limited will arrange cross-boundary coach services during the dispersal period on the event dates to facilitate travellers’ return to the Mainland via the LMC/HG Port. Passengers should purchase tickets prior to the concert (on-site ticket sales not available during dispersal) and board their coach at the PUDOA on the G/F, Kai Tak Stadium, via the escalator outside Gate H, 2/F. They should refer to the operators’ website (Eternal East Bus: www.myeebus.com/eebusfansIssued at HKT 12:00 NNNN Hong Kong ICT Awards 2025 opens for enrolmentSource: Hong Kong Government special administrative region The Hong Kong ICT Awards (HKICTA) 2025 opens for enrolment today (April 22). Entries of locally developed information and communications technology (ICT) products and solutions are invited to compete for the Grand Awards in the eight award categories and the top accolade of the competition – the Award of the Year. Enrolment is free of charge and the deadline is July 14, 2025. The HKICTA 2025 is organised by the Digital Policy Office (DPO) with each award category to be led by a local industry association or professional body. The award categories and respective leading organisers are listed below:
Established in 2006, the HKICTA is an annual signature event of the local ICT industry which aims to recognise and promote outstanding ICT inventions and applications, thereby encouraging the pursuit of innovation and excellence among Hong Kong’s ICT professionals and enterprises to develop innovative applications meeting business and social needs, use innovation and technology (I&T) to bring benefits to the community, and foster Hong Kong’s I&T and smart city development. Through concerted efforts of the ICT sector, academia and the Government, the HKICTA has always been highly regarded by the information technology industry, and the winners may also be nominated to compete in other regional and international competitions on behalf of Hong Kong and be sponsored to participate in overseas I&T exhibitions. The award acts as an encouragement and recognition to the winners, and enables their access to both Mainland and overseas markets. Chinese Culture Festival 2025 to hold free Chinese opera talks and exhibitionSource: Hong Kong Government special administrative region To promote the culture and artistic features of Chinese opera among members of the public, the Chinese Opera Festival (COF), as a core part of the Chinese Culture Festival (CCF) 2025, will organise a number of free talks, masterclasses and an exhibition from May to August to introduce various theatrical genres, performance styles, repertoire appreciation and more from various perspectives. Veteran Cantonese opera performing artist Yuen Siu-fai will host four talks to discuss the classic plays from the “Three Kingdoms” story that will be staged in this year’s COF from the perspectives of character portrayal, the art of adaptation, strategic plots in the storylines and genre variations. This year’s COF features three Kunqu opera performances. Three talks will be given by seasoned Kunqu art researcher Cheung Lai-chun, who will guide audiences through the culture and stories behind the plays as well as their exquisite stage interpretations. This year’s COF features regional operatic genres that are rarely seen by Hong Kong audiences – Yuediao opera of Henan and Qinqiang opera of Shaanxi, along with selected Chinese operas based on the “Romance of the Three Kingdoms”. Scholar of Chinese opera Lum Man-yee will deliver two talks, covering the evolution of “Three Kingdom” operas and the characteristics of female performers playing “xusheng” (bearded male) role in Yuediao and Qinqiang traditions respectively. Main cast members of the Zhejiang Jingkun Art Center (Kun Opera Troupe) will host masterclasses and a demonstration talk delving into the techniques of sheng (male) and dan (female) role performances as well as the art of music and singing of Kunqu opera respectively. A “Three Kingdoms in Chinese Opera” Exhibition will be held at Hong Kong Cultural Centre and Yuen Long Theatre from May to August. The exhibition will illuminate the make-up, costumes and stage artistry of key characters in Chinese opera “Three Kingdoms” repertoires, showcasing the arts across opera genres. Admission is free. |