“Lingering Echoes - Heritage and Innovation of Nanyin” Love for Ma Tei – Nanyin Concert

Yung Shue Tau, Tin Hau Temple, Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei Theatre and the distinctive Hong Kong-style teahouses in Yau Ma Tei encapsulate the collective memories of many Hong Kong residents. In the early 20^th century, Yau Ma Tei, then known as Ma Tei, was a Chinese settlement. By the 1960s and 1970s, it had evolved into a vibrant district bustling with diverse shops and frequented by opera artists who performed in public spaces such as teahouses and on the streets. Nanyin, known for its straight forward lyrics and simple accompaniment, became a popular form of entertainment during this time. Over the years, many iconic nanyin performers had performed in Yau Ma Tei, solidifying its status in the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Hong Kong.

In 1911, Kwong Wah Hospital was established in Yau Ma Tei as the first hospital in Kowloon and the New Territories. It has since provided Chinese and western medical services to the community. The Tung Wah Museum, originally the Main Hall Building of Kwong Wah Hospital, resides in the hospital’s courtyard. In 1970, when the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals celebrated its centenary, this building was converted into the Tung Wah Museum to preserve the group’s archives and cultural relics. Recognised for its historical and architectural significance, Tung Wah Museum was declared a monument in 2010. This year we celebrate the 155^th anniversary of the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals and the 55^th anniversary of Tung Wah Museum. In honour of these milestones, we have invited Professor Yuen Siu-fai, maestro of Cantonese Opera, to compose new lyrics dedicated to Tung Wah. He will perform alongside promising young nanyin artist, offering a profound reflections on the people and sentiments of Yau Ma Tei through nanyin, a traditional form of narrative singing, and savour the Tung Wah story of Hong Kong sung in Cantonese nanyin as we enjoy the beautiful music.