The Emperor & the Nightingale by Hong Kong Ballet
Nomade by Cirque Eloize (Canada)
Paper World by Mimirichi Clowns and Pantomime Theatre (Ukraine)

The International Arts Carnival running from July 8 to August 21 this year features over 480 fun family events for audiences of all ages. Six troupes from Canada, Japan, the Ukraine, the Czech Republic, Brazil and Spain will join 23 local groups to present exciting stage performances including acrobatics, puppetry, music, dance, drama and comedy.

Kicking off the carnival will be the Asian premiere of Nomade, by Canadian troupe, Cirque Eloize. Inspired by the wandering spirit and traditional folklore of the gypsies, it presents a unique blend of acrobatics, comic timing and infectious music.

A highlight of the Carnival is the celebration of Hans Christian Andersen's bicentenary with The Emperor and the Nightingale, based on one of Anderson's most immortal tales.

The spectacular performance by the Hong Kong Ballet will come with colourful sets and costumes, and an exciting score by Hong Kong-born composer Richard Tsang, enhanced by live percussion, gongs and drums. The production was a big hit on its European tour in 2000. 

Other programmes include Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves by Japan's Pikkari Theatre and the utterly crazy Paper World by Mimirichi Clowns and Pantomime Theatre from Ukraine.

To ensure that even toddlers are kept amused, there are The Flying Babies by Drak Theatre from the Czech Republic, Cocktail Clowns by Brazilian Group XPTO, and Animals by the El Retablo Puppet Theatre from Spain.

Apart from the various performances, there will be workshops, school tours and design competitions for youngsters to get involved in international arts and culture first-hand.

The 2005 International Arts Carnival is organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department of the Hong Kong Government.  More information is available on www.hkiac.gov.hk

Related link
The International Arts Carnival