Art on the move

You don't have to visit a gallery or go to the theatre to appreciate art. Thanks to the MTR Corporation's 'art in mtr' campaign, passengers can enjoy art as they commute.

The campaign, launched in 1998, features art displays and live performances. It aims to make art more accessible to the public.

The campaign's 'living art' programme, which began in October 2004, has seen professional artists and amateur performers demonstrate their talents at Hong Kong Station's Central Subway.

Every Friday evening at 6pm, passengers can watch a live performance, ranging from ethnic dances, theatrical performances and jazz gigs to solo recitals and student music performances.

In July, a group of girls from the YMCA of Hong Kong (Cheung Sha Wan Centre) performed a Nepalese dance in traditional costumes.

Last week, the Hong Kong Dance Company staged a modern Chinese dance show, Dream Dances. The dancers demonstrated how Chinese opera props, such as fans, swords and umbrellas, are used.

Miranda Leung, general manager of the MTR Corporation's Corporate Relations, said the idea is to provide a platform for people to display their artistic talents.

'With MTR stations being an integral part of the community, the programme is intended

to promote Hong Kong's community art, encourage art appreciation among the public and make residents feel at home in our stations,' said Mrs Leung.

A group of students from Buddhist Ching Kok Secondary School will perform Music Fusion on September 22.

Featuring Chinese and western musical instruments and styles, the show aims to give the audience a brand-new musical experience.

Chan Yi-man, a music teacher from the school, said the public performance would be a great opportunity for students to gain confidence and improve their musical skills.

'Our school has always encouraged students to perform in public. We approached the MTR and, given that our students had taken part in public performances before, they gave us permission,' Miss Chan said. 'My students are really excited and we're looking forward to the performance.'