Fans of Chinese opera and architecture enthusiasts are trooping to the first landmark venue to open in the West Kowloon Cultural District. The venue is called the Xiqu Centre, xiqu meaning Chinese opera. It has been open since 20 January and performances with opera and tea house themes are being staged in May. The building’s spectacular design by two Hong Kong firms is attracting architectural enthusiasts and students.
If you approach the waterfront cultural district from the east the first building you will come to is the Xiqu Centre. It is at the junction of Canton and Austin Roads, easily accessible from the MTR. The building’s design reflects flow or “qi” in its curved panes, arched openings and circular paths. When you walk in through the entrance intended to evoke parted stage curtains you will find yourself in an enormous atrium with multiple displays on traditional Chinese themes. Such a huge public space is enabled because the architects put the Grand Theatre seating 1073 above it. The Xiqu Centre is eight storeys high and was designed by local firms Avery Architecture and Ronald Lu & Partners. The centre is open from 10:00 am to 10:30 pm.
Here is a selection of shows you can attend currently:
- Shanghai Pingtan Troupe will stage adaptions over consecutive nights of the Gao Bown novel in the 200-seat Tea House Theatre.
- Tea House Rising Stars Troupe will demonstrate early 20th century tea house ceremonies until 25 August. The audience will be served traditional teas and dim sum.
Take a look at www.westkowloon.hk for the complete schedule.
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