Comedy show DETENTION to celebrate Lingnan University 125th anniversary and launch of performance studies as minor

In celebration of the 125th anniversary of Lingnan University and the introduction of Performance Studies as a new minor in the 2014-15 academic year, the University invited Tang Shu-wing Theatre Studio, a renowned centre for theatrical research and creation in Hong Kong, to present the show Detention at the Shouson Theatre of Hong Kong Arts Centre on 30 August 2014.

The Honourable Bernard Charnwut Chan, Council Chairman of the University, and Mr Tang Shu-wing, artistic director of Tang Shu-wing Theatre Studio, had a dialogue on “Creativity” and “Education” before the show. Mr Chan, as a graduate of studio art, said art learning and performance studies would help people “think out of the box”. Mr Tang, an honorary fellow of the University, said performance studies had become increasingly important around the world and called on Hong Kong to move faster. (View video shots of dialogue)

In his remarks after the dialogue, President Prof Leonard K Cheng said that Lingnan University would introduce Performance Studies as a new minor in the new academic year. The minor will be interdisciplinary, involving courses in Cultural Studies, Chinese, English, History and Visual Studies. This will further enrich the University’s liberal arts curriculum, which aims to nurture young people to become knowledgeable, caring and responsible global citizens with broad perspectives. The University also hopes to nurture more cultural and creative talents for Hong Kong and neighbouring areas.

Detention, the first non-verbal physical comedy originated from Hong Kong, is performed by a group of talented comedians, athletes, dancers, drummers and Chinese opera performers. Premiered in Hong Kong in 2011 and performed around the world, the show is suitable for people of all ages and cultural backgrounds. It was performed for three weeks at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2012, and received a 5-star rating by the media there. The show has also been performed in major cities in Mainland China and filmed by the China Central Television for introduction to its audience around the country. This 93rd performance was attended by nearly 300 Lingnanians and guests.