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A world-class Mongolian choreographer-dancer, Aminurta Kang performed his signature piece "The Wild - Remembrance" last October in Hong Kong as part of "A Showcase of Prize-winning Chinese Dances". His stunning technique and theatricality received rapturous admiration. The renowned dancer will join hands with acclaimed local classical guitarist Kenneth Kwan to present a unique solo dance programme, "One". The programme will be staged at 8 pm on June 14 and 15 (Friday and Saturday) at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Studio Theatre.

The idea of the performance is based on the ancient Chinese concept of "Heaven and Humankind becoming One". Starting from a solid foundation of Mongolian dance, coupled with modern dance and even a little tap dance steps, accompanied by music from both East and West, the audience will be led into a soul-searching and heart-touching journey.

Aminurta Kang started dance training at a young age and later attended the Tertiary Course on Dance Education for the Ethnic Minorities at the Central University of Nationalities. He has won scores of prizes including the Gold Award at the First Lotus Award Competition and the First Prize at the National Taoli Cup Dance Competition. Kang has toured more than 30 countries, giving talks and performances. In 1992, he immigrated to Canada and was awarded the Dora Mavor Moore Award for Performing Arts and Dance as well as a Special Arts Medal from the World Children's Fund. Kang founded the "Wolf" Dance Company of Canada in 1995 and caused a sensation in North American dance circles with his choreography of "The Dance of Life", "A Dialogue with Wolves" and "The Wild - Remembrance". He is regarded as a star of international standing with his innovative style in the art of dance.

Kenneth Kwan graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo, majored in classical guitar performance, conducting and music theory. He has participated in major music festivals in North America such as the Toronto International Guitar Festival. "Buffalo News" remarked his playing "sensitive" and "Legato" commented on his performance that received "an ovation that clearly reflected the audience's delight." Kwan has taught at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts and the Chinese University of Hong Kong. He has recently hosted a guitar music lecture series for the Leisure and Cultural Services Department.

Presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, tickets priced at $120 and $90 are now available at all URBTIX outlets. Half price concessions will be granted to senior citizens, people with disabilities, full-time students and Comprehensive Social Security Assistance recipients (Limited student and CSSA tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis). A 10% discount is also available for Friends of LCSD performing venues.

In addition, a dance workshop titled "Dance and Life" by Aminurta Kang will be held at 3 pm on June 9 (Sunday) at the Rehearsal Room GR2, 8/F of the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Grand Theatre. Tickets priced at $30 are available at all URBTIX outlets. Number of participants is limited to 30 and participants with dance background are preferred.

Programme enquiries can be made on 2268 7323 or website www.lcsd.gov.hk/cp. Ticketing enquiries and reservation can be made on 2734 9009; Internet booking can be made at www.urbtix.gov.hk while credit card telephone booking on 2111 5999.

End/ Tuesday, May 14, 2002

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