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Renowned theatre director Edward Lam today (June 18) conducted "An Open Class on Urban Trilogy" at Fudan University in Shanghai introducing his latest production "Grand Expectations" and sharing his views on "Urban Trilogy". More than 250 people, mostly university students and young theatre-goers, attended the event which was an HKSAR programme for Expo 2010 Shanghai China (Shanghai Expo).
Mr Lam introduced his theatre series "Urban Trilogy" which kicked off in 2008. Showing video clips of the three-part series, he explored the meaning of "expectations", "fortune" and "future" for people living in metropolises in their pursuit of success.
Mr Lam said: "Part I of the trilogy 'Design for Living' (2008) tells stories of survival skills in the present world. Part II 'Man and WomanĄDWar and Peace' (2009) traces the cultural roots in the past that laid the foundations of gender roles. Part III 'Grand Expectations' (2010) focuses on fortune and future.
"Since 2007, I have toured China staging 'Madame Bovary is Me', 'Design for Living' and 'Man and WomanĄDWar and Peace'. I treasure every opportunity to meet and share ideas with youngsters on various topics. This time, I am particularly delighted to be able to share my feelings and those of my production team as reflected in 'Urban Trilogy' in an interactive manner. Presented under the Shanghai Expo umbrella, this workshop imparts special meaning to us."
Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Mrs Betty Fung, said: "This open class signifies the first extension activity organised in collaboration with Shanghai universities as part of the HKSAR cultural programme for Shanghai Expo. This serves as a catalyst for cultural exchange and co-operation."
Mrs Fung said more workshops and lectures would be conducted by Hong Kong's famous masters and performing groups during the Shanghai Expo period. These include the "Master Class on Modern Dance by Willy Tsao" at Tongji University on June 22 and a demonstration workshop by Theatre du Pif at Shanghai University in September.
Mr Lam's "Grand Expectations", a mmnage j trios in a contemporary urban setting, will premiere in Shanghai. An interpretation of Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations", the production features a strong cast directed by Mr Lam. It also includes creative director Ms Sylvia Chang, playwright Mr Wang Chi-yao and leading performers Ms Lee Sinje, Mr David Wang and Mr Tony Yang. It will be presented in Putonghua from July 22 to July 25 at Oriental Opera Hall, Shanghai Oriental Art Centre.
Programme details and ticketing information are available under the Event Calendar section on Hong Kong's Expo website www.hkexpo2010.gov.hk.
"Grand Expectations"
Date: July 22 to 25, 2010
Time: 7.15pm
Venue: Oriental Opera Hall, Shanghai Oriental Art Centre
Length: Approx 3 hours
Ticket price: RMB500, 380, 280, 180, 100
Online booking: www.ticket2010.com
Ticketing enquiries (Shanghai): (+86 21) 6854 1234 Programme enquiries (Hong Kong): (+852) 2893 8732
ELDT website: www.eldt.org.hk
Ends/Friday, June 18, 2010
Issued at HKT 19:43
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