Dr Kelly Chan Kar-yue, Centre Director of IHCORC, explained the concept behind the exhibition's title, noting that it incorporates the names of the Cantonese opera artists who loaned the precious costumes as a tribute to them.
Mr Owen Tam Man-lik, University Librarian, hopes that the exhibition will inspire the younger generation to take a greater interest in the stage artistry and traditional craftsmanship of Cantonese opera.
Mr Loong Koon-tin, Chairman of the CAAHK, describes the Cantonese opera costumes as “the crystallization of traditional craftsmanship”, encourages the public to appreciate the culture and stories behind the costumes.
Dr Kelly Chan Kar-yue presents the Cantonese opera costumes to the media.
The exhibition also showcases Cantonese opera clay print librettos.
Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) is staging “Resplendent Attire and Graceful Demeanor: The Cantonese Opera Costume Exhibition” at the Ho Sik Yee Library on the Jockey Club Campus starting today (3 February). The exhibition showcases a collection of rare and exquisite Cantonese opera costumes, including key pieces worn by the legendary “Queen of Huadan”, Dr Fong Yim-fun; the late renowned artist Dr Lam Kar-sing; and the late “Artistic Huadan Queen”, Ms Chan Ho-kau. Members of the public are invited to view the craftsmanship and design of these classic costumes up close, with the aim of fostering interest in Cantonese opera culture and passing on this intangible cultural heritage.
The exhibition is organised by the Ina Ho Cantonese Opera Research Centre (IHCORC), the HKMU Library, and the Tin Ka Ping Centre of Chinese Culture, and co-organised by the Chinese Artists Association of Hong Kong (CAAHK), the Hong Kong Cantonese Opera Troupe (HKCOT), and the Fong Yim Fun Art Sustainability Project of Shaw College, The Chinese University of Hong Kong.
The opening ceremony was held yesterday (2 February). Officiating guests included Mr Loong Koon-tin, Chairman of the CAAHK; Mr Leonard Wong Shing-chuen, Chief Executive Officer of the HKCOT and Honorary Advisor of the IHCORC; Prof. Andrew Chan Chi-fai, Convener of the Advisory Committee of the Fong Yim Fun Art Sustainability Project; Ms Yam Dan-fung, Cantonese opera artist; and Prof. Paul Lam Kwan-sing, HKMU President.
Renowned Cantonese opera virtuoso Mr Loong Koon-tin lent two of his treasured costumes for the exhibition. During his speech, he shared the design aesthetics behind his “White Xiaokao with Orange and Golden Gu embroidery”, which he wore during his performance of the classic opera Why Not Return? （《胡不歸》）. He highlighted that the matching headdress, known as the Western Helmet, incorporates elements of ancient Western headgear, perfectly illustrating the unique eclectic style of Cantonese opera costumes. He described the costume as “the culmination of traditional craftsmanship” and expressed his hope that the exhibition would enable the public to appreciate the culture and stories behind the costumes, while appealing for continued support for the development of Cantonese opera.
Enhancing interest in Cantonese open through “Wearable Art Pieces”
Dr Kelly Chan Kar-yue, Centre Director of the IHCORC and Associate Dean (Learning and Teaching) of the School of Arts and Social Sciences at HKMU, expressed her gratitude to the co-organisers and renowned Cantonese opera artists and their families for loaning the precious costumes. She expressed hope that the exhibition would transform the public's perception of opera costumes from merely stage props to “wearable art pieces”, while deepening the public's knowledge and interest in this art form.
“By allowing the exhibits to be viewed up close, we aim to showcase the aesthetic characteristics of the costumes in terms of embroidery, colour combinations, tailoring and structural design,” Dr Chan explained. “In addition to appreciating the exquisite craftsmanship, visitors can gain insights into how these costumes embody the identity and personality of various roles, such as Wenwusheng, Wusheng, Chousheng and Huadan.”
Mr Owen Tam Man-lik, University Librarian, explained the Library's dual mission of cultural stewardship and promotion. “We have always been committed to preserving and promoting Chinese culture,” he said. “By integrating our literary collections with physical artefacts, we hope to inspire visitors to adopt a more multi-dimensional cultural perspective.” He stated that this exhibition is a significant initiative to pass the torch of Cantonese opera to the younger generation, ensuring that this cherished heritage remains vibrant and timeless in the modern era.”
Rare exhibits featuring traditional craftsmanship and unique artistry
The exhibition highlights two precious “Women's Python Ceremonial Robes”. The first was worn by the celebrated Dr Fong Yim-fun during a charity performance of the opera excerpt The Red Ribbon Bouquet Romance（《紅綾配》）for the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine in 1994, where she performed alongside Dr Maria Lee Tseng Chiu-kwan. The other standout piece is a python robe with orange-gold sequins on a pinkish-purple base. This exquisitely crafted costume was worn by the late Ms Chan Ho-kau during her stage performances in the 1960s and 1970s.
Another highlight is the orange “Round Collar” robe, featuring a crane rank badge embroidered in golden threads. This costume was worn by Dr Lam during his 1987 performance of A Love Affair Rekindled Amidst The Smoke and Rain（《煙雨重溫驛館情》）. Meticulously hand-stitched using traditional “gold-nailing embroidery” techniques, the robe is a magnificent and dazzling display of craftsmanship. Known as a modified version of an “Official Robe”, this style was reserved for high-ranking civil and military officials and is distinguished from standard plain official robes by the intricate patterns embroidered on its lower hem.
Also on display is an orange Gu-embroidered “Grand Armour” loaned by Mr Loong Koon-tin. This traditional battle robe, typically worn by generals and marshals, was worn by Mr Loong in numerous productions, including The Ten-year Dream（《隋宮十載菱花夢》）. The imposing costume features a complex structure with four flags inserted at the back and is showcased alongside its matching headdress.
The exhibition also features a “Costume for Ladies” (worn by unmarried female characters), designed by renowned artist Ms Leung Siu-sum. Ms Leung created this costume to complement the narrative when she co-starred with Mr Law Kar-ying in the 1980s production The Magic Shoe's Destiny: A Tale of Startling Love（《仙履奇緣一線牽之驚情》）. It features a red large-sleeved outer robe adorned with peacock feathers.
There are two sets of costumes on display from the Hong Kong Cantonese Opera Troupe's 2024 production The Butterfly and the Red Pear Blossom（《蝶影紅梨記》）. They demonstrate a graceful, refined and gentle aesthetic that contrasts sharply with the martial costumes. The exhibition also showcases musical instruments belonging to renowned Cantonese opera musicians, as well as Cantonese opera clay print librettos.
To ensure optimal presentation and proper preservation of these valuable artefacts, particularly the sequined pieces, which require highly specific environmental conditions, HKMU employs professional display cases with strict controls on temperature, humidity and lighting.
HKMU is committed to the research, promotion and preservation of Cantonese opera and maintains close collaboration with the HKCOT. In 2024, the University signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the CAAHK. To complement the exhibition, the University will organise a series of related workshops to deepen the public's understanding of Cantonese opera and foster cultural inheritance.
Exhibition Details
Date: From now until 30 June 2026
Time:
Venue: Ho Sik Yee Library, 5/F, HKMU Jockey Club Campus, 81 Chung Hau Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.hkmu.edu.hk/as/research/ihcorc/can-opera-costume-exhibition/
Registration: https://bit.ly/4agdpOL
Officiating guests at the opening ceremony of the “Resplendent Attire and Graceful Demeanor” exhibition.
Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) is staging “Resplendent Attire and Graceful Demeanor: The Cantonese Opera Costume Exhibition” at the Ho Sik Yee Library on the Jockey Club Campus starting today (3 February). The exhibition showcases a collection of rare and exquisite Cantonese opera costumes, including key pieces worn by the legendary “Queen of Huadan”, Dr Fong Yim-fun; the late renowned artist Dr Lam Kar-sing; and the late “Artistic Huadan Queen”, Ms Chan Ho-kau. Members of the public are invited to view the craftsmanship and design of these classic costumes up close, with the aim of fostering interest in Cantonese opera culture and passing on this intangible cultural heritage.
The exhibition is organised by the Ina Ho Cantonese Opera Research Centre (IHCORC), the HKMU Library, and the Tin Ka Ping Centre of Chinese Culture, and co-organised by the Chinese Artists Association of Hong Kong (CAAHK), the Hong Kong Cantonese Opera Troupe (HKCOT), and the Fong Yim Fun Art Sustainability Project of Shaw College, The Chinese University of Hong Kong.
The opening ceremony was held yesterday (2 February). Officiating guests included Mr Loong Koon-tin, Chairman of the CAAHK; Mr Leonard Wong Shing-chuen, Chief Executive Officer of the HKCOT and Honorary Advisor of the IHCORC; Prof. Andrew Chan Chi-fai, Convener of the Advisory Committee of the Fong Yim Fun Art Sustainability Project; Ms Yam Dan-fung, Cantonese opera artist; and Prof. Paul Lam Kwan-sing, HKMU President.
Renowned Cantonese opera virtuoso Mr Loong Koon-tin lent two of his treasured costumes for the exhibition. During his speech, he shared the design aesthetics behind his “White Xiaokao with Orange and Golden Gu embroidery”, which he wore during his performance of the classic opera Why Not Return? （《胡不歸》）. He highlighted that the matching headdress, known as the Western Helmet, incorporates elements of ancient Western headgear, perfectly illustrating the unique eclectic style of Cantonese opera costumes. He described the costume as “the culmination of traditional craftsmanship” and expressed his hope that the exhibition would enable the public to appreciate the culture and stories behind the costumes, while appealing for continued support for the development of Cantonese opera.
Enhancing interest in Cantonese open through “Wearable Art Pieces”
Dr Kelly Chan Kar-yue, Centre Director of the IHCORC and Associate Dean (Learning and Teaching) of the School of Arts and Social Sciences at HKMU, expressed her gratitude to the co-organisers and renowned Cantonese opera artists and their families for loaning the precious costumes. She expressed hope that the exhibition would transform the public's perception of opera costumes from merely stage props to “wearable art pieces”, while deepening the public's knowledge and interest in this art form.
“By allowing the exhibits to be viewed up close, we aim to showcase the aesthetic characteristics of the costumes in terms of embroidery, colour combinations, tailoring and structural design,” Dr Chan explained. “In addition to appreciating the exquisite craftsmanship, visitors can gain insights into how these costumes embody the identity and personality of various roles, such as Wenwusheng, Wusheng, Chousheng and Huadan.”
Mr Owen Tam Man-lik, University Librarian, explained the Library's dual mission of cultural stewardship and promotion. “We have always been committed to preserving and promoting Chinese culture,” he said. “By integrating our literary collections with physical artefacts, we hope to inspire visitors to adopt a more multi-dimensional cultural perspective.” He stated that this exhibition is a significant initiative to pass the torch of Cantonese opera to the younger generation, ensuring that this cherished heritage remains vibrant and timeless in the modern era.”
Rare exhibits featuring traditional craftsmanship and unique artistry
The exhibition highlights two precious “Women's Python Ceremonial Robes”. The first was worn by the celebrated Dr Fong Yim-fun during a charity performance of the opera excerpt The Red Ribbon Bouquet Romance（《紅綾配》）for the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine in 1994, where she performed alongside Dr Maria Lee Tseng Chiu-kwan. The other standout piece is a python robe with orange-gold sequins on a pinkish-purple base. This exquisitely crafted costume was worn by the late Ms Chan Ho-kau during her stage performances in the 1960s and 1970s.
Another highlight is the orange “Round Collar” robe, featuring a crane rank badge embroidered in golden threads. This costume was worn by Dr Lam during his 1987 performance of A Love Affair Rekindled Amidst The Smoke and Rain（《煙雨重溫驛館情》）. Meticulously hand-stitched using traditional “gold-nailing embroidery” techniques, the robe is a magnificent and dazzling display of craftsmanship. Known as a modified version of an “Official Robe”, this style was reserved for high-ranking civil and military officials and is distinguished from standard plain official robes by the intricate patterns embroidered on its lower hem.
Also on display is an orange Gu-embroidered “Grand Armour” loaned by Mr Loong Koon-tin. This traditional battle robe, typically worn by generals and marshals, was worn by Mr Loong in numerous productions, including The Ten-year Dream（《隋宮十載菱花夢》）. The imposing costume features a complex structure with four flags inserted at the back and is showcased alongside its matching headdress.
The exhibition also features a “Costume for Ladies” (worn by unmarried female characters), designed by renowned artist Ms Leung Siu-sum. Ms Leung created this costume to complement the narrative when she co-starred with Mr Law Kar-ying in the 1980s production The Magic Shoe's Destiny: A Tale of Startling Love（《仙履奇緣一線牽之驚情》）. It features a red large-sleeved outer robe adorned with peacock feathers.
There are two sets of costumes on display from the Hong Kong Cantonese Opera Troupe's 2024 production The Butterfly and the Red Pear Blossom（《蝶影紅梨記》）. They demonstrate a graceful, refined and gentle aesthetic that contrasts sharply with the martial costumes. The exhibition also showcases musical instruments belonging to renowned Cantonese opera musicians, as well as Cantonese opera clay print librettos.
To ensure optimal presentation and proper preservation of these valuable artefacts, particularly the sequined pieces, which require highly specific environmental conditions, HKMU employs professional display cases with strict controls on temperature, humidity and lighting.
HKMU is committed to the research, promotion and preservation of Cantonese opera and maintains close collaboration with the HKCOT. In 2024, the University signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the CAAHK. To complement the exhibition, the University will organise a series of related workshops to deepen the public's understanding of Cantonese opera and foster cultural inheritance.
Exhibition Details
Date: From now until 30 June 2026
Time:
Venue: Ho Sik Yee Library, 5/F, HKMU Jockey Club Campus, 81 Chung Hau Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon
Admission: Free
Website: https://www.hkmu.edu.hk/as/research/ihcorc/can-opera-costume-exhibition/
Registration: https://bit.ly/4agdpOL
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