More than 30 groups lined up for shows at new Chinese opera theatre in Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Cultural District
- Operator says booking situation ‘satisfying’ amid concerns over high fees, with HK$22,000 in daily rent for grand theatre
- Features in swanky hall include air conditioning from under seats, and an elevated structure to avoid disturbance from underground trains
More than 30 groups were lined up for shows next year at a widely anticipated Chinese opera theatre in Hong Kong’s multibillion-dollar arts hub, its operator revealed on Wednesday.
Louis Yu Kwok-lit, performing arts executive director at the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, said performers who booked the Grand Theatre at the new Xiqu Centre included big and small groups.
Yu promised to review charges at an appropriate time amid concerns over high rents which may not be affordable for some local arts groups. “I have to say again, our current leasing situation is satisfying.”
The theatre, which can accommodate more than 1,000 people, charges at least HK$22,000 in daily rental for performances.
Leung Wai-hong, leading actor at local opera group Canto Op, said it could not afford the fees. But he added that his group did not favour performing there. They usually strut their stuff at Ko Shan Theatre in To Kwa Wan.