Premier of PolyU Musical “Forward and Beyond”, reflecting on the University’s proud history and promising future

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) attaining university status, the University is presenting an original musical titled “Forward and Beyond” from yesterday (28 November) for three consecutive days at the Jockey Club Auditorium on campus. The Musical brings together professional artists along with 36 PolyU students, staff and alumni in presenting a passionate performance through music, drama and dance, to showcase PolyU’s history and aspirations as well as many uplifting stories, including the University’s outstanding achievements in aerospace technology and research. Around 700 guests and PolyU community gathered for yesterday’s premiere.

The Musical is a collaboration between the University and the PolyU Artists’ Alliance (the Alliance), with Dr Liza WANG, the Alliance’s Convenor, PolyU Fellow and the University’s 2020/2021 Artist-in-Residence, leading the project and actively involved at all stages, from casting and scriptwriting to production and rehearsals, contributing to cultural promotion.

Dr Liza Wangsaid, “As the Convenor of the PolyU Artists’ Alliance, I am thrilled to participate in the preparation of the Musical, to narrate the University’s stories through art. The enthusiastic participation of PolyU students, staff and alumni in the rehearsals and performance makes me confident that the Musical will not only be a feast for eyes and ears, but also an inspiring story that leads the audience to rediscover PolyU’s transformation and achievements. Congratulations once again on the 30th anniversary of PolyU attaining university status, and may the University continue to advance in academic, research and arts and culture.”

PolyU President Prof. Jin-Guang TENG said, “PolyU actively promotes the development of arts and culture by organising diverse arts and cultural activities to enhance the artistic and cultural atmosphere on campus, enrich the artistic appreciation of our students, staff and alumni, and foster our students’ holistic development. I am especially grateful for the leadership of Dr Wang, the support of renowned artists and groups, as well as the students, staff and alumni who participated in the performance. With their enthusiasm and effort, they conveyed the PolyU story and delivered a splendid performance.”

The Musical “Forward and Beyond” has received support from several artists and groups, including Mr LEUNG Kin-fung, an Alliance member, PolyU Fellow, the University’s 2022/2023 Artist-in-Residence and the artistic director and conductor of the PolyU Orchestra, who actively participated in the Musical’s preparation; Mr Alex TAM, the University’s 2023/2024 Artist-in-Residence  and conductor of the PolyU Choir, who serves as the composer and Music Director of the Musical; Actor’s Family, the renowned local musical theatre group, who jointly produced the Musical; and professional artists Mr Raymond YOUNG and Mr Gary TAM, along with PolyU student, staff and alumni, who contribute an evocative interpretation of significant chapters in the history of the University.

For more details about The PolyU Musical “Forward and Beyond”, please visit:

https://www.polyu.edu.hk/cpeo/promotion-of-culture-on-campus/event/2024/11-november/2024112830_polyu-musical/?sc_lang=en

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