Celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China: "Elegance in Hong Kong – Cheongsam, Cultural Integration and Symbol of Identity”

Co-organised by TWGHs Records and Heritage Office and Hong Kong Public Libraries

Subject talks on “Integrating Past with Present: The Journey of Tung Wah’s Intangible Heritage through Time”

Established in 1870, the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals (formerly Tung Wah Hospital) is Hong Kong’s oldest Chinese charitable organisation. For over a century, it has provided much-needed services to the local community. Throughout its development, Tung Wah has accumulated and preserved a rich heritage of tangible assets such as buildings, artefacts and archives, as well as intangible aspects of traditional Chinese culture that brings communities together. Rather than vanishing as a result of societal advancements and institutional changes, the elements of traditional Chinese culture have been continuously inherited and evolved. The most widely known elements are inarguably those listed in the First Intangible Cultural Heritage Inventory of Hong Kong: namely the Man Mo Temple Autumn Sacrificial Rites, held annually since 1957; Cantonese opera, which has close ties with Tung Wah; and the cheongsam, frequently showcased in historical photos and ceremonies of Tung Wah. Notably both Cantonese opera and Hong Kong cheongsam-making technique have been inscribed onto the National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. By exploring topics such as Autumn Sacrificial Rites, the cheongsam and the early preservation of Cantonese opera, audiences will get insights into how Tung Wah has integrated these elements of intangible cultural heritage in a new approach, thereby embodying and promoting a spirit of innovation.

Second talk：" Elegance in Hong Kong – Cheongsam, Cultural Integration and Symbol of Identity "

Since its introduction to Hong Kong in the beginning of the 20th century, the cheongsam has developed into an internationally recognised iconic Chinese costume, deeply embedded in the city’s unique cultural ecology. From everyday attire to ceremonial costume, its evolution has been closely linked to local social practices, providing a sense of identity for the Chinese community. The cheongsam is a symbol of identity on multiple levels: in different ancestral groups and social communities, there are corresponding variations, applications and interpretations. This talk will examine how, over the past century, men’s and women’s cheongsam have reflected the changes in society and become an important component of Hong Kong culture. It will also explore topics such as the sense of identity and lifestyle of Hong Kong people and globalisation through the cheongsam.