ENG-1983 — Page 292

RECREATION AND THE ARTS

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The main event of the year was the hosting of two important exhibitions in April and July, attracting more than 600 people daily. Another highlight was the appearance of the internationally-acclaimed Cloud Gate Dance Theatre which gave five full-house perform- ances in June. A programme of masterpieces from the Chinese cinema during 1930 to 1950 also attracted a large audience.

Ko Shan Theatre

The Ko Shan Theatre, the first purpose-built open air theatre in Hong Kong, was opened in March. Located in Ko Shan Road Park in Kowloon, the theatre occupies 2 500 square metres and 1 000 of the 3 000 seats are under cover. Under the overall administration of the Urban Council, the theatre is fitted with sophisticated lighting and sound systems and projection equipment, and is suitable for Chinese opera, drama, variety shows, orchestral concerts, film shows and community gatherings. During the year, about 140 000 people attended 172 performances at the theatre.

Council for the Performing Arts

The Council for the Performing Arts was established in June 1981, to advise the government on the development and needs of the performing arts in Hong Kong. The 13 unofficial and five official members of the council were appointed by the Governor in February 1982 to serve for a two-year term.

Six committees service the main council in music; dance; drama and technical services; festivals and district activities; public relations and sponsorship; and finance vetting. Each committee is chaired by an unofficial member of the council and to ensure that the council is advised by those actively involved in the performing arts in Hong Kong includes, as co-opted members, specialists and professionals in the particular fields.

Performing Arts Division

The Performing Arts Division of the Recreation and Culture Department administers the government's financial support to the Hong Kong Arts Festival Society, Hong Kong Philharmonic Society, Hong Kong Conservatory of Music, Hong Kong Academy of Ballet, Chung Ying Theatre Company and the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts. The division provides support for music and dance activities through the Hong Kong Jockey Club Music Fund and provides administrative support to the Council for the Performing Arts. It also co-ordinates international events and overseas tours - the most significant in 1983 being the Third Conference of Commonwealth Arts Administrators which was hosted by Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts

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In preparation for the admission of students to the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts in 1985, key staff have been appointed to develop the curriculum and recruit teachers and administrative staff.

The academy will maximise the cultural diversity of Hong Kong, with emphasis on both Oriental and Western forms and styles in the four different disciplines - dance, drama, music and technical arts. As well as full-time three or four year courses leading to diplomas or degrees, an out-reach programme will include part-time and refresher courses and performing arts events in schools and community centres. A programme is being developed for children especially gifted in the performing arts. In addition to consultation with Hong Kong-based performing arts organisations, the academy has established direct links with