Street performer says Hong Kong becoming more appreciative of his craft

Mong Kok’s Sai Yeung Choi Street - in Andrew So Chun-chau’s ideal Hong Kong - would be transformed into an outdoor theatre. A destination for tourists and locals, who would come to enjoy a diverse range of street performances, and learn about a variety of art forms.

The street would be organised by a licence system, and regulated to give space to each performer while avoiding traffic obstruction. And pesky salespeople peddling mobile phone packages or slimming diet plans would be banished.

It’s a far cry from the current situation in the Kowloon street. So has performed in various places around Hong Kong as Mr Funny for more than eight years. He has been arrested twice. His back is injured from the strain of juggling. But he will not give up until his dream is realised.

So lays out the benefits of street art clearly and succinctly. It is obviously a case he’s made countless times, to Legislative Council officials, political party members and even in court. Street performance attracts tourists, gives artists a much needed platform to showcase their work, and educates the public, he says. “When people see street art they feel happy and relaxed and this brings harmony to society”, he adds.

It’s this feeling of happiness that inspires So in his work. “It’s a two-way street”, he says. He is driven by the joy he sees on the faces of his audience, and their happiness rubs off on him.