Fanny Chung

Focusing on the outreach programs of major performing arts groups in Hong Kong that receive direct government funding, this research examined the emerging forms of play-based and creative approaches for children and their modes of implementation in relation to audience development and the realization of the performing arts groups' mission and vision. Since 2006, "Learning through play" has been advocated as the central approach in the education policy of Hong Kong. However, there is very limited knowledge about the context and impacts of these educational programs within the outreach and education sector of major performing arts groups. This study included intensive fieldwork conducted at the performing arts groups, supplemented by historical and archival research on outreach programs. The project aims to contribute to our understanding of the role and impacts of outreach programs undertaken by major performing arts groups.