Hong Kong theatre needs support to make an impact abroad
Jingan Young says the impact of local theatre abroad is undermined by lack of funds, poor venues and imported competition, but change is afoot
Lack of funding, inadequate venues and the consistent import of productions from abroad are some of the reasons Hong Kong theatre isn't making an impact abroad. But it appears local theatre makers have had enough - slowly but surely change is happening. All we need now is the Hong Kong people's support.
In June, I wrote about the lack of communication between Hong Kong's theatre makers.
I organised a debate earlier this month, inviting three individuals who produce, promote and pioneer the arts to give their views on the state of theatre in Hong Kong. A journalist, a producer for the arts, an artistic director of a local theatre company and I discussed and argued about the problems that we each face. Inevitably, lack of funding and venues were the most pressing concerns.
However, one very important question remained; why don't we export more Hong Kong theatre?
We are starting to see a shift in the conversation from lack of government support to lack of pioneering spirit amongst the artists themselves, and a positive dialogue is opening up between local and English-speaking practitioners.
The solution also lies in garnering support from the Hong Kong people. But how can we encourage their enthusiasm?
One problem is the public's long-held notion that the arts are only for the elite or a form of propaganda. We need to portray the arts as inviting, enriching and life-changing, whilst supporting artists so they can continue to be creative and productive.