Translating Culture-Bound Elements:A Case Study of Traditional Chinese Theatre in the Socio-Cultural Context of Hong Kong

This study explores the controversy surrounding the translation of the name of a new cultural infrastructure in Hong Kong,specifically related to the cultural heritage of traditional Chinese theatre.The first performing arts landmark in Hong Kong's West Kowloon Cultural District was named the Xiqu Centre;the term xiqu is a Hanyu pinyin representing traditional Chinese theatre.Though this translation issue has been intensely debated for over a decade,it remains unexplored in the research.With reference to Venuti's translation strategies of foreignization and domestication,this study examines the Hong Kong public's views on the translation of the name of this cultural landmark and the underlying drivers of their perceptions.It uses internet-based surveys,semi-structured interviews with the public,and interviews with experts as data sources.The results revealed that factors of(1)aesthetics and artistry,(2)cultural identity,and(3)publicity and internationalization have contributed to public perception.This study^findings shed new light on how translation interacts with cultural,social,and political factors by examining how Hong Kong’s unique historical relationship with China and the West has played a role in this translation issue.The findings have significant implications for the translation of culture-bound elements and the transmission of cultural heritage in Hong Kong and worldwide.

Developing Audiences Through Outreach and Education in the Major Performing Arts Institutions of Hong Kong:Towards a Conceptual Framework

The public's participation rate in performing arts in Hong Kong has historically been low,and the Arts Participation and Consumption Survey in 2018 indicated that the primary reason was 4a lack of interest*and that education in the arts could increase public involvement.The survey data clearly indicate the significance of education as a driver to develop future audiences.There are nine major performing arts organisations funded by the Hong Kong government,and they share the responsibility of shaping the performing arts landscape.This study explored the role of outreach and education within these major performing arts organisations and how they impact audience development.In addition to document analysis and fieldwork,the researcher interviewed five cultural leaders from the nine performing arts organisations.The findings of this study indicate that while the organisations*outreach and education engagement help to achieve various important educational goals,direct impact on ticket sales is not easily quantifiable and may occur in the long run.This study concludes by offering a proposed conceptual framework for outreach and education when they are positioned in non-profit performing arts organisations.The four layers in the proposed conceptual framework involve cognitive,affective,ethical,and behavioural dimensions.It contributes to reframing the conceptualisation of audience development for the performing arts and sheds new light on the future of outreach and education in arts organisations and policymaking in arts and culture,with far-reaching implications for other non-profit cultural organisations in Hong Kong and globally.