Fans eat, drink and are merry as arts pioneer picks up an award

Food is not usually welcome in the Amphitheatre, but the Academy for Performing Arts made an exception when it hosted the local ceremony for the 20th Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award, conferred by the luxury-goods maker on someone 'whose personal commitment and achievements deserve wider recognition.'

This year the award went to Hong Kong actor and arts pioneer Chung King-fai - one of 12 winners internationally - who was much in demand as well-wishers and fans queued up to congratulate him and take photos - lots of them.

The Amphitheatre's protruding stage was transformed into a dimly-lit fine-dining space where wine flowed freely for almost 200 guests. .

'I am happy to meet them here,' Chung, 74, said in his solemn voice. He was still in fine form after an hour of mingling and camera flashes, and so were his friends. Director Johnnie To Kei-fung cheered wildly and applauded heartily alongside actor Stephen Au Kam-tong when Chung received his award.

A string quartet, harp and dancers in the attire of ancient Greeks entertained diners, as did singer Louis Cheung Kai-chung. But wagyu steak tartare and fine music were just not celebratory enough for some party-goers. They hit the drink again as soon as they'd polished off the raspberry macaroons.