Theatre group sets the scene for gays to get into politics

THE recent success of a homosexual theatre group will set the scene for gays to enter the political arena, according to a gay activist.

The group, the Hong Kong Ten Per Cent Club, made its stage debut to full houses at the Arts Centre last weekend. Each of its six 80-seat performances was a sell-out and already tickets are being snapped up for four more shows at the Fringe Club later this month.

Club co-chairman Jack Lo says the venture highlights the strength of homosexual support in the community.

''Our intention was to build up the gay culture in Hong Kong by bravely going on stage all by ourselves,'' he said.

''We must fight for our rights through the political spectrum.'' Although he refused to disclose the strength of the club's membership, Mr Lo said it could be a force to contend with in forthcoming elections.

''What I can say is that up to 10 per cent of the total population in Hong Kong is gay, that means about 600,000. We will use these votes as the bargaining power for our rights.'' He said it was not yet the right time for a gay candidate to stand for election, but the club was looking for the right candidate to support.

The club gave its full support to the Equal Opportunities Bill drafted by legislator Anna Wu Hung-yuk recently. Mr Lo said the bill was only one step towards the ultimate goal.