The West Kowloon Cultural District Authority Appointed Mr Paul Tam as Executive Director, Performing Arts

The West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA or the Authority) announced the appointment of Mr Paul Tam to the position of Executive Director, Performing Arts (EDPA). Mr Tam will be responsible for steering the strategic planning and sustainable development of the performing arts venues and facilities in the West Kowloon Cultural District (West Kowloon or the District) and overseeing the business direction and operation models of these venues. His appointment is effective in early 2020.

Mr Tam has a strong background in performing arts management. He began his career in the arts and culture sector when he joined the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra in 1996. During his more than a decade’s service with the Orchestra, Mr Tam held various positions and successfully rebranded and grew both the box office and attendance for the institution as Director of Marketing. Prior to joining WKCDA, Mr Tam was Executive Director of Hong Kong Ballet, leading the dance group’s strategic artistic development, business growth, sponsorship and donation, and  rebranding campaign. Through world-wide artistic collaborations and a variety of initiatives, Mr Tam developed Hong Kong Ballet to a dynamic, award-winning, internationally regarded and locally endeared arts and culture brand.

Photo credit: West Kowloon Cultural District Authority

In his new role as EDPA of WKCDA, Mr Tam will lead the Performing Arts Division to deliver West Kowloon facilities and programmes that provide a welcoming, professional and awe-inspiring experience for visitors and audiences alike. With more performing arts venues to be opened in West Kowloon, Mr Tam will be responsible for all aspects of planning for these facilities, from commencement to implementation and operation. In addition, he will help drive fundraising and sponsorship opportunities for the performing arts in West Kowloon.

Mr Henry Tang Ying-yen, Chairman of the WKCDA Board, said, “WKCDA is dedicated to championing, developing and investing in artistic experiences that enrich people’s lives. Mr Tam has over 20 years’ professional experience in performing arts management and promotion, and demonstrated excellent leadership in Hong Kong’s leading arts institutions that he served. Mr Tam’s calibre will be of tremendous benefit to the Authority. The appointment underscores WKCDA’s commitment of delivering its vision to become one of the world’s leading integrated arts and cultural hubs.”

Mr Paul Tam said, “I am greatly honoured to be appointed the Executive Director, Performing Arts of the Authority. I look forward to working with all members of WKCDA and build the District into both a world-class platform where the best local and international performing arts talents are showcased and the civic pride of the people of Hong Kong.”

Mr Duncan Pescod, Chief Executive Officer of the WKCDA, said, “I welcome Mr Tam as he joins West Kowloon to lead our dynamic Performing Arts Division to advance. Building on the successful opening of the Xiqu Centre and Freespace, and with construction of the next one-of-a-kind performing arts venue, the Lyric Theatre Complex, underway, he will further develop West Kowloon’s reputation for quality and creativity both in Hong Kong and beyond.”

The West Kowloon Cultural District is a place to create, produce, learn, perform and celebrate all forms of performing arts. The Performing Arts Division, covering professional teams from dance, theatre, xiqu, music and outdoor and, learning and participation, is committed to presenting outstanding and imaginative performances and festivals across all art forms from Hong Kong and around the world, making West Kowloon an arts and cultural hub where people of all ages are welcomed, entertained and educated.

Click here to visit West Kowloon Cultural District Authority’s website.