WHEN Lindsey McAlister started to look for a venue where young people could share arts experience a year ago, little did she expect that her undertaking would balloon into ''a community project'' called the Hong Kong Youth Arts Festival.
''I feel strongly about giving young people an opportunity to work with real artists because that would enhance their creativity,'' said Ms McAlister, the artistic director of this first-ever arts event.
The festival, scheduled from October 9 to 16, is different from others in that it has primary and secondary students taking up the major performing role, with local youth arts groups, amateur and professional performers guiding and joining forces with them.
''It is basically a participatory festival for the youth. Performers range from five years old to 25 in each programme,'' Ms McAlister said.
Besides afternoon and evening performances, the eight-day jamboree also features exhibitions, an outdoor event and workshops.
Among the 20 odd performances, one can enjoy original works by students.