The British Council and Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts are hosting a residency programme with leading performing arts figures from the UK.  

Ralph Koltai, one of the most distinguished and experienced contemporary stage designers in the world today, will host a free lecture on 27 October.  Koltai will share the thinking behind his unique and inspiring use of evocative contemporary materials for his world-famous bold designs for great classic opera and drama performances.

The Smith Quartet is at the forefront of contemporary music. They have established an international reputation for their dynamic style and original approach which includes the use of electronics and multimedia. They will perform two public concerts: one with Academy Music students which will feature Chinese instruments; and the second performance will be with two Academy quartets featuring Reich’s Triple Quartet.

Public lecture by Ralph Koltai

8 p.m., 27 October 2008

Recital Hall, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts; tickets are free and available from 6.30pm on the evening of the lecture from the Academy’s box office.

The Smith Quartet concerts

8 p.m., 29 & 30 October 2008

Concert Hall, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts;

Tickets: $85 ($45 concessions) are available from www.hkticketing.com