Splendid programmes to celebrate Cultural Centre's 25th anniversary (with photo)
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     Since its opening on November 8, 1989, the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC) has hosted countless outstanding local and overseas artistic performances and has played a key role in supporting the development of arts in Hong Kong and promoting international cultural exchanges.

     To celebrate the HKCC's 25th anniversary, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department will hold "Arts Connect Party at Cultural Centre" from 2pm to 6pm on November 8 (Saturday), during which different artists and groups will offer a series of music, dance and theatre programmes at the foyer and piazza areas of the HKCC for free public participation.

     During the afternoon, HKCC venue partners the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra and Zuni Icosahedron will present a series of Western and Chinese music performances, as well as Cantonese pop music of the 1950s and '60s, in the foyer. Members of the public are also welcome to visit the "Hi-tech Musical Instruments Display" at the foyer exhibition area.

     Meanwhile, two drum performances will be held at the piazza area. Participants will be led to play drums together, and internationally renowned drummer Chris Brien will perform with his students, celebrating the occasion with percussion music.

     Co-ordinated by local veteran dance artist Daniel Yeung, 10 groups of choreographers and dancers will stage a site-specific dance performance at the piazza areas, leading the audience on a dance journey. Interacting with the architecture and surroundings of the HKCC, the dance pieces will showcase the lively and diverse qualities of the Hong Kong dance scene.

     Moreover, 25 upright pianos will be placed in the piazza areas. Some of the pianos will be artistically decorated, making them even more fun for members of the public to play. People will also be able to stroll around the Creative Market to see and buy handicrafts made by local artists.

     Apart from the above-mentioned free programmes, a rich array of more than 40 creative programmes is under way at the HKCC from September until January next year. These include a celebration concert to be held at the HKCC Concert Hall on November 7 (Friday) at 8pm. More than 200 local music talents, including conductor Perry So, pianist Rachel Cheung, the Hong Kong Philharmonic Chorus and the Learners Chorus, will perform works including some of the greatest music for voice ever composed.

     The series of celebration programmes will not only reinforce the artistic vision of diversity and pluralism of the HKCC, but also make the memorable occasion even more meaningful.

     For enquiries, call 2734 2009 or 2734 2820 or visit the HKCC 25th anniversary designated website www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/hkcc/25A/index.html.

Ends/Monday, November 3, 2014
Issued at HKT 17:11

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