The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA) - School of Chinese Opera

ABOUT THE PROGRAMMES

With the aim of enhancing the interest of the young generation in Chinese opera, COYP is designed for those who are aged from 9 to 17 demonstrating potentials in Chinese opera performing art.

COYP is a three-year programme which focuses on the training of Chinese opera performing techniques. It covers foundation acrobatic skills, weapon skills, stage movement, Cantonese operatic singing, basic percussion, as well as concepts of modern theatre technology, providing students with an interdisciplinary training in Cantonese opera art form. Outstanding students would be allowed opportunities to take part in performances and promotional events of the School.

COYP provides a foundation training for potential students who are interested in going into bachelor programme offered by the School of Chinese Opera or entering the industry. Interviews are conducted in August on an annual basis.

During its past 13 years of operation, although the School of Chinese Opera (formerly the Office of Chinese Traditional Theatre) has undergone rapid development, it has been constant in supplying a steady stream of novices to the Cantonese opera industry. Many graduates from both the performance and music streams have been employed by local professional Cantonese opera companies and government-aided Cantonese opera troupes. Some graduates have also formed their own troupes and production companies, have performed with various professional Cantonese opera performers, and have been gaining popularity among local audiences.