The Oral Legacies (I) - Intangible Cultural Heritage of Hong Kong

Historical painting of a bamboo theatre in Canton (19th century). Photo of Astor Theatre in Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon, as the main venue for performance by the “mega troupes” made up of artists from Guangdong and Hong Kong. (From left) Pak Suet Sin, Fong Yim Fun and Yam Kim Fai, in the 1950s. Photo of the Executive Council of the Chinese Artists Association of Hong Kong (1960s). A thanksgiving performance during the 2015 Jiao Festival held at Kam Tin - Prime Minister of the Six States by Golden Blossom Opera Troupe.

Officials and representatives from Guangdong, Macao and Hong Kong at the press conference announcing the successful inscription of Cantonese opera onto UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity (31 October 2009). A cast list of “Yat Tung Tai Ping Troupe” donated by Dr. Leung Pui Kam – a good illustration of the role system of Cantonese opera troupes in the early 20th century. (From left) San Ma Sze Tsang and Chan Kam Tong in full costume, in the 1950s. Photo of Fung Wong Nui in action on stage (1970s). Photo of Lang Chi Pak miming “Riding the Cart” (1980).

Woman’s embroidered ceremonial robe
1994
Originally belonged to Fong Yim Fun Black “cart-riding” boots with embroidered dragon motif
1970s
Originally belonged to Lang Chi Pak A lady general’s decorated helmet
1970s
Originally belonged to Ng Kwan Lai Red Women’s Python Ceremonial Robe with Golden Yellow Sequins. White Haiqing (gown with a sloping collar) with Light Green Sequins.