International Arts Carnival under way (with photos)
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    The annual spectacular summer festival, International Arts Carnival, opened today (July 7) at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium.

     Officiating at the opening ceremony was Secretary for Home Affairs, Dr Patrick Ho. Before the ceremony, Director of Leisure and Cultural Services Ms Anissa Wong presented prizes to the winners of the International Arts Carnival Graphic Design Competition.

     The Best Cover Design award went to 10-year-old primary four student Fung Ka-man who was also the winner of the primary school section, while form six student Wong Nga-lei was the winner of the secondary school section.

     The International Arts Carnival Graphic Design Competition attracted 2,616 entries this year.

     A fun-filled "Summer Fun Party" featuring fun games, clown shows, magic shows, puppet theatre, was staged at the stadium this afternoon, providing fun and entertainment for the whole family.

     The "Summer Fun Party" will also be held tomorrow (July 8) from 4.30pm to 7.30 pm.

     Organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, the International Arts Carnival to be held from July 7 to August 13, will feature more than 420 events for family enjoyment.

     Launching this year's arts festival is "Heroes" by the award-winning Wuhan Acrobatic Troupe. Combining traditional acrobatic feats with modern stage techniques, the performance is an unprecedented celebration of contemporary acrobatics.

     Other performance line-up includes puppetry, music, dance, drama, clowns and films.
 
     Apart from performances, there will be workshops, school tours, exhibitions, cultural tours, library and museum activities.

     Tickets priced from $40 to $280 are available at URBTIX outlets now. Half-price tickets are available for full-time students, senior citizens, people with disabilities and Comprehensive Social Security Assistance recipients. Package discounts of up to 15% are available for full-price performing arts programmes/films.

     Programme guides are available at URBTIX outlets or at the website, www.hkiac.gov.hk

     For programme enquiries, call 2370 1044. Telephone reservations can be made on 2734 9009 and credit card telephone bookings on 2111 5999. Internet bookings can be made at www.urbtix.hk

Ends/Friday, July 7, 2006
Issued at HKT 21:00

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