What's On - February 2012

Lots to Enjoy During Lantern Festival (4-12/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The fifteenth day of the first moon of the lunar calendar (6/2 this year) - also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day - heralds various celebrations held throughout the city. The Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau will hold the ‘Lunar New Year Celebration of the Year of the Dragon’ in Tap Seac Square, Park of Iao Hon Market and the Carmo Fair in Taipa (4-6/2, Enquiries: 89884100) whilst the ‘Lunar New Year in Hong Kung Carnival’ (4-6/2, Enquiries: 28921409) held in front of the Hong Kung Temple will include Cantonese Opera and a lucky draw.

Enjoy free dumplings, participate in lantern riddles and lantern bidding on the last night plus a parade during the ‘Lantern Festival Lion Dance Celebration’ (5/2, Enquiries: 28373746) which will wend its way from Ponte 16 to Senado Square and Hong Kung Temple. Join the ‘Fiesta Felicidade’ on the same day and pick up ‘Lai Si’ at Rua de Felicidade (Enquiries: 28333142). The ‘New Year Celebration in Barbosa’ (12/2, Enquiries: 28400425) will feature game booths and stage performances in the recreational area of Bairro Tamagnini Barbosa.

Feast of Nuwa (5/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The Feast of Nuwa falls on the fourteenth day of the first moon of the lunar calendar (5/2 this year) with visitors welcome to attend the 10:00am ceremony. According to myth, the goddess is credited with creating Mankind from her image by shaping the first human beings out of yellow clay, and is also remembered for undertaking the mighty work of repairing the Wall of Heaven. Because Nuwa has become synonymous with humanity, many devotees pray for love at the Nuwa Temple, located in the immediate vicinity of the Ruins of St. Paul’s.

The ‘Open Treasures’ of Kun Iam (16-17/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, Kun Iam Temple (Pou Chai Sim Un) is foremost among the temples of Macau completed during the Ming Dynasty. It is also the busiest temple in the city this month because the ‘Open Treasures’ of Kun Iam are on display from 16 - 17/2. Many believers pray from 11:00pm on 16/2 to the next morning in order to ‘return money’, ‘borrow money’ and attract ‘good luck’ from Kun Iam. The ‘Open Treasures’ ceremony, derived from southern Chinese folklore and with a strong local flavour, is one of the few overnight religious activities to be held in the enclave.

Incense & Pinwheel Stalls
Date & Time: 16/2 - 8:00pm to 7:00am (next day)
Location: Kun Iam Temple, Ave. do Coronel Mesquita

Feast of the God Tou Tei (21-25/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Fok Tac Chi Pagoda hosts Chinese Opera over the course of five days and nights (21/2 7:30pm; 22- 25/2, 2:00pm & 7:30pm) during the annual festival of the Feast of the God Tou Tei on the second day of the second moon of the lunar calendar (23/2 this year). Visitors can also enjoy another three evenings (22 - 24/2, 7:30pm) of Chinese Opera performances in the environs of Tou Tei Temple. Visitors are also welcome to visit the ceremony with lion dance in these two temples at 11:00am (23/2).

Fok Tac Chi Pagoda
Address: Rua de Toms da Rosa (near the Horta da Mitra Market)
Enquiries: (853) 6661 7207

Tou Tei Temple
Address: Rua da Palmeira
Enquiries: (853) 2895 5745

Procession of the Passion of Our Lord (25-26/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Procession of the Passion of Our Lord The unique annual event known as the ‘Procession of the Passion of Our Lord, the God Jesus’ is a commemoration of long standing significance in Macau, and dates back to missionary activity in the territory from the 16th Century. Christians in Macau participate in a solemn procession through the streets in a re-enactment of Jesus carrying the cross to his crucifixion. Starting at St. Augustine’s Church, a figure of Christ bearing the cross is carried through Senado Square, along Trav. do Roquete to the Cathedral in Cathedral Square, where it is left during an overnight vigil. On its return to St. Augustine’s Church the following day, it is carried across Senado Square, St. Dominic’s Square, Rua do Campo and Av. da Praia Grande.

Time: 7:00pm (25/2) / 4:00pm (26/2)

'The House of Dancing Water' Makes Big Splash

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

City of Dreams is celebrating the triple triumph of its flagship entertainment show ‘The House of Dancing Water,’ having scooped the prestigious international THEA Award for Outstanding Achievement from the Themed Entertainment Association and Best Entertainment of Macau from the 2011 Hurun Report. Dancing Water Theatre, the magnificent custom-built home of this well-patronised production, also earned The Design for Asia Merit Recognition Award for design excellence.

The show is housed in one of the world’s largest water-based theatres providing the world’s largest commercial pool, and features cutting-edge theatre technology that has attracted some one million spectators to date, whilst garnering rave reviews from entertainment critics around the world.

For performance time, please refer to organizer.
Venue: Dancing Water Theatre at City of Dreams, Estrada do Istmo, Cotai
Admission: MOP480 - 1380
Enquiries: (853) 8868 6688
Organizer: City of Dreams
http://www.thehouseofdancingwater.com

I Love Steam Dumplings (1-4/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The Theatre Farmers never fail to deliver when it comes to stagecraft and intriguing storylines. This time, the tale revolves around the life experiences of poor old ‘Ah Hou’ who tries hard to learn how to make steam dumplings. Having cracked the secret of making and selling the tasty morsels, she not only finds herself with an enhanced reputation but the attentions of two ardent suitors in hot pursuit. This comedy - enlivened by Guangdong melodies - puts a song in the heart and gives the philosophically inclined plenty to chew on!

Time: 8:00pm
Venue: Small Auditorium, Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Admission: MOP168, 128
Enquiries: (853) 2870 5005
Organizer: Theatre Farmers
Language: Cantonese (no subtitles)
http://www.tfarmers.org

Weekends in Feb - Stepping Out in Old Macau

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Frenetic drumming, the clash of tambourines, and the spectacle of Chinese martial arts - every weekend, the Macau Government Tourist Office hosts the highly emotive national dance performances of two countries that have harmoniously co-existed for almost half a millennium to make Macau what it is today, in tandem with thrilling Kung Fu and Drunken Dragon demonstrations. Performed against the backdrops of the city’s iconic historic squares and monuments, tourists and residents alike never fail to thrill to these wonderful free, open-air performances. Performances last about 20 minutes. Great photo-taking opportunities, great memories!

Lion Dance Performance (4, 11, 18, 25/2 Saturdays)
Venue & Time: Rua do Cunha, Taipa - 2:00pm
Barra Square (A-Ma Temple) - 3:00pm
Ruins of St. Paul’s - 4:00pm

Drunken Dragon (5, 19/2 Sundays)
Venue & Time: Praca da Amizade (Friendship Square) - 3:00pm

Chinese Martial Arts Performance (12, 26/2 Sundays)
Venue & Time: Praca da Amizade (Friendship Square) - 3:00pm

Portuguese Folk Dance Performance (5, 12, 19, 26/2 Sundays)
Venue & Time: Ruins of St. Paul’s - 11:00am
Barra Square (A-Ma Temple) - Noon
Rua do Cunha, Taipa - 1:00pm

Tourism hotline: (853) 2833 3000
Organizer: Macau Government Tourist Office
http://www.macautourism.gov.mo

Megastar Leo Ku now Illuminating Macau (4/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Hong Kong Megastar Leo Ku has brought home an abundance of musical awards from around the world. His recent Hong Kong performance of ‘Amazing World’ sold out superfast and generated outstanding reviews so his Macau audience can expect a night of spectacular entertainment by this polished show business veteran as he steps onto the stage of the CotaiArena for the very first time to deliver his first solo performance to fans in Macau.

Time: 8:00pm
Venue: CotaiArena, the Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel
Admission: MOP780, 580, 380, 280
Enquiries: (853) 2882 8818
Organizer: The Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel
https://www.cotaiticketing.com

Music as Emotion (4/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Immerse yourself in the sometimes tumultuous and highly emotional musical world of Ludwig van Beethoven. Witness the composer abandon the superficial virtuosity of his earlier works and move towards the warmer regions of his Septet in E-flat Major, Op. 20 and his Quintet for Piano and Strings in E-flat Major, Op. 16. Perfect in form and texture and richly endowed by the soaring splendour of UNESCO World Heritage-listed St. Dominic’s Church, these chamber compositions make for straightforward and compelling listening.

Time: 8:00pm
Venue: St. Dominic’s Church, St. Dominic’s Square
Free tickets distributed outside St. Dominic’s Church one hour before concert starts.
Enquiries: (853) 2853 0782
Organizer: Macau Orchestra
http://www.icm.gov.mo/om

Italian Pianist Stefano Rover debuts on Macau Stage (5/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Born in Bologna in 1975, Stefano Rover started playing the piano at the age of four under prestigious masters until graduating summa cum laude from the Luigi Cherubini Conservatory in Florence in 1996.

Awarded prizes in some of the most important national and international competitions, Rover regularly performs in concerts both in Italy and abroad, where his extensive, polished repertoire - ranging from the Baroque to contemporary music, with a major interest in Beethoven and the Romantic composers - has earned him wide appreciation from diverse and knowledgeable audiences.

Time: 8:00pm
Venue: Small Auditorium, Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Admission: MOP200, 150
Enquiries: (853) 6686 5370
Organizer: Macau Piano Association
http://www.pianomacau.com

Valentine’s Day Concert - A Night of Passion (11/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

This Valentine’s Day, the Macau Orchestra and several renowned national and international soloists invite you and that special person in your life to a rousing celebration of Romance and Love. Thrill to the enchanting scores of Giacomo Puccini’s La Boheme, Act I and his immortal Madame Butterfly, Act I as sopranos Zhou Xiao-lin and Yao Hong plus tenor Li Shuang convey the master composer’s flashes of emotional turmoil under the practiced baton of conductor Lü Jia.

Time: 8:00 p.m.
Venue: Grand Auditorium, Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Admission: MOP150, 120, 80
Enquiries: (853) 2853 0782
Organizer: Macau Orchestra
http://www.icm.gov.mo/om

Macau Band GIG Series (11/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Live Music Association (LMA) is a non-profit organization founded in 2008 by a group of live music enthusiasts - including musicians, soundmen, lighting technicians, graphic designers and photographers - all with the aim of promoting their common love in Macau. Their 6,000sq.ft live music performance area can accommodate up to 150 people and also has a rest/exhibition area, backstage and office. Since its establishment, LMA has hosted numerous concerts to provide a platform for local and overseas bands to perform in Macau, facilitate exchange and encourage cross-art form co-operation. Catch ‘Why Oceans’, ‘Fall to Fly’, ‘Experience’, ‘Roof’, and ‘Half Cat’ on Saturday 11th of this month.

Time: 8:30pm
Venue: No. 48-48D, Avenida do Coronel Mesquite, Edif. Ind. Man Kei, 10-B
Admission: Free
Enquiries: Tel. (853) 2875 7511
Organizer: LMA
http://www.lmamacau.com

Hey, Presto! Magical Macau (11/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Master magician Lu Chen keeps you guessing to the end with his amazing music, imagery, practiced timing, and incredible sleight of hand. Or is it really magic? Decide for yourself at his very first performance of ‘Dazzle Lu Chen Macau 2012’ in Macau. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, he’s sure to have something extra up his sleeve! Be prepared to be bedazzled, bewitched and enchanted by a magician who’s up to all the tricks in the book.

Time: 8:00pm
Venue: CotaiArena, the Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel
Admission: MOP980, 680, 280
Enquiries: (853) 2882 8818
Organizer: The Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel
http://www.cotaiticketing.com

Lots Popping Out of ‘Open Box 2012’ (11-25/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The Macau Cultural Centre presents another edition in the popular ‘Open Box’ series with a fine selection of irreverent performing arts that beckon the audience closer to the on-stage action. Conceived to encourage novel artistic work by the city’s up and coming talent, ‘Open Box’ introduces a whole new set of perspectives to our cultural landscape. This time, we can enjoy four local productions performed in Cantonese - ‘6m x 6m’ (17-18/2) multimedia theatre; ‘The Magic Hours’ (17-18/2) dance-theatre; ‘Reflections’ (24-25/2), an outdoor tragedy revisiting the Greek classic ‘Antigone’ (24-25/2); and a new media music performance featuring Hong Kong’s ‘Digital Hug’ (11/2).

For details, please refer to organizer.
Venue: Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Admission (free-seating): Digital Hug - MOP150 / Other performances - MOP100
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2870 0699
Organizer: Macau Cultural Centre
http://www.ccm.gov.mo

Exceptional Reverberations (17/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

An exhilarating evening of musical diversity awaits with the accomplished Macau Orchestra. Experience a liberating variety of percussion instruments, the reinterpretation of J.S. Bach’s musical and spiritual world plus the delicious layering of jazz and classical music onto traditional tango in the intimate and restored splendour of the baroque Dom Pedro V Theatre. Prepare to be thoroughly delighted and regally entertained by the exceptional reverberations of Reich’s ‘Clapping Music’, Debussy’s ‘Arabesque No. 1 & 2’, Hindemith’s ‘Sonata for Four Horns’, Piazzolla’s ‘The Four Seasons of Buenos Aires’ and Bach’s inimitable ‘The Art of Fugue for Cello Ensemble’.

Time: 8:00pm
Venue: Dom Pedro V Theatre, No. 3, St. Augustine’s Square
Admission: MOP40
Enquiries: (853) 2853 0782
Organizer: Macau Orchestra
http://www.icm.gov.mo/om

Conductor Kuo & Macau Chinese Orchestra Turn on ‘Taiwan Charm’ (18/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

As part of its successful outreach programme to ‘foreign’ orchestras, musicians and conductors, the Macau Chinese Orchestra has lined up a special treat for concertgoers this month by inviting acclaimed Taiwanese conductor Kuo Che-cheng to take up his baton for a performance titled ‘Taiwan Charm’.

Conductor-in-charge of the Youth Chinese Orchestra of the Kaohsiung City Philharmonic Art Foundation, his devotion to promoting and composing Taiwanese music that expresses Taiwanese culture has brought Kuo just recognition by enthusiastic audiences far and wide throughout almost three decades of inspirational conducting.

Time: 8:00pm
Venue: Dom Pedro V Theatre, No. 3, St. Augustine’s Square
Admission: MOP40
Enquiries: (853) 8399 6688
Organizer: Macau Chinese Orchestra
http://www.icm.gov.mo/ochm

Excellent Table Service (23/2 - 1/3)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The 20th Macau Asian Championships is the most important event in the Asian Table Tennis Union (ATTU) calendar, and is held by different countries or regions every two years. This is the first time that Macau will host the event, and diverse Asia teams will vie for this year’s honours in a city that has become synonymous with many of the region’s most important sporting clashes. Those not lucky enough to get a seat at the spectacular Macau East Asian Games Dome venue can console themselves by watching the live TV broadcast.

For details, please refer to organizer.
Venue: Macau East Asian Games Dome, Ave. de Lutos, Cotai
Enquiries: (86) 10-6718 6928
Organizer: Asian Table Tennis Union
http://www.attu.org

Free Guided Tours of St. Lawrence’s Church

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

As a free service to the many visitors enthralled by the centuries-old churches of Macau, the Pilgrimage Service of the Catholic Lay Association of Macau offers free guided tours of the 400-year old St. Lawrence’s Church in the World Heritage ‘Historic Centre of Macau.’ Specially trained, multi-lingual docents recount the history of this beautiful buildings, bringing alive the splendour, and sometimes the pain, of the past.

Time: 2:00-5:00pm (Every Saturday and Sunday, without appointment)
Language: Cantonese, Mandarin, English & Korean
Enquiries: (853) 2892 1438
Organizer: Pilgrimage Service of the Catholic Lay Association of Macau

No Smoking Ordinance now in effect in Macau

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Law no. 5/2011 Regime of Tobacco Prevention and Control entered into force in Macau on 1st January 2012. To protect citizens and visitors from exposure to second-hand smoke, smoking is prohibited in most public indoor places such as hospitals, food and beverage establishments, hotels, ports and airports, passenger shelters, shops, museums, karaoke establishments and lifts.

Smoking is also prohibited in public outdoor areas such as parks, beaches, public swimming pools, escalators, footbridges and subways as well as on public transportation. Please note that it is an offence for any person to smoke or carry a lighted tobacco product in a designated no-smoking area, with offenders subject to a maximum fine of MOP600. For details of statutory no-smoking areas, please refer to the Regime of Tobacco Prevention and Control Office.

Tobacco Prevention and Control Office, Health Bureau
Report and enquiry hotline: (853) 2855 6789
http://www.ssm.gov.mo/smokefree

Round the Clock with MacauMap & Tourism Hotline

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

MacauMap - a handheld digital map of Macau designed for personal digital assistants (PDAs) and smartphones, running on PalmOS, Pocket PC, Symbian S60 smartphones, Symbian UIQ smartphones, iPhone and the WEB - displays streets, hotels, restaurants, sightseeing spots and the network of public bus stops and bus routes. Its search engine enables visitors to quickly and conveniently locate restaurants by type and class, and searches for bus routes from the boarding bus stop to the destination. All information can be displayed in Chinese, English and Portuguese, and visitors can download from the Macau Government Tourist Office website (www.macautourism.gov.mo) for free.

The Tourism Hotline (853) 28333000 is manned by operators and provides a recorded message service for information in Cantonese, Mandarin, Portuguese, English or Japanese.

WiFi Go the Way to Go!

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Did you know that Macau is one of the most ‘connected’ cities in the world? The Wireless Broadband System is a dominant feature of Macau’s communications system and we want visitors as well as residents to take advantage. So, if you’re here for a couple of days, or much longer, tune into free wireless Internet connectivity with the territory-wide WiFi Go service. By using the IEEE 802.11 b/g standard WiFi Go device you can hook up with family, friends, business partners, etc. from almost anywhere in Macau - including museums, libraries, activity centres, sports centres, ports, and tourism information counters. Way to Go!

Service hours: Daily from 8:00am to 1:00am the following day
Enquiries: (853) 2828 3883
http://www.wifi.gov.mo

Macau Science Centre

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Macau Science Centre, designed by world-renowned architect Ieoh Ming Pei, has many permanent science-themed exhibitions and interactive exhibitions for children plus the world’s highest-resolution three-dimensional Planetarium as noted by the Guinness Book of World Records. Its hemispherical big screen and high-tech digital projectors regularly present programmes featuring astronomy, geography and science. Recently, the Centre introduced ‘Legends of Flight 3D’, whereby exhibition-goers can experience the first public flight of the Airbus A380 and of the lighter Dreamliner 787, the first ever carbon fibre airliner! The Centre also has multi-functional conference rooms, shops and cafes.

Time: 10:00am to 6:00pm (Closed on Thursdays and 22/1, Open on public holidays)
Address: Avenida Dr. Sun Yat-Sen
Admission: Exhibition Centre: MOP25
Planetarium (Dome/Sky Shows): MOP35
Planetarium (3D Dome/3D Sky Shows): MOP45
Enquiries: (853) 2888 0822
http://www.msc.org.mo

Plain Sailing with Macau Harbour Cruises

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The Harbour Cruise pushes off from the historical Inner Harbour and continues past famous local attractions such as A-Ma Temple, Macau Tower, Sai Van Bridge, Maritime Museum, and Kum Lam Ecumenical Centre, presenting passengers with a perfect perspective on the city’s rich heritage in the adventurous, intimate environment that only a cruise can bring.

Time: 1:00pm, 6:00pm, 8:00pm (Duration: 1.5 hours)
Start point: Ponte No. 12 (Port-Interior), Rua do Visconde Paco de Arcos
Admission: MOP398, 298, 120
Enquiries: (853) 2893 0012
Organizer: Macau Cruise Development Co., Ltd.

Have a pleasant stay in Macau, in Legal Accommodation

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

When you visit Macau, you may only stay in licensed accommodation - guesthouses, pousadas, hostels, etc. - to avoid potential hazards such as fire and unsanitary conditions. As the law on Prohibition of Providing Illegal Accommodation is now in force the Macau SAR Government respectfully reminds visitors to patronize only legal accommodation - a list is available. You may also report illegal accommodation via the Tourism Hotline on (853) 28333000. Let’s all be safe rather than sorry!

http://www.macautourism.gov.mo/en/info/accommodation.php

Chinese Craftsmen Create Folk Art in Historic Lou Kau Mansion (17/1 - 5/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Wang Tianming’s micro-carving works such as his bean carvings with words measuring just 0.02 mm2 are renowned for their supreme delicacy. The master craftsman has exhibited works and given live demonstrations in countries worldwide, winning numerous national and international awards.

Fellow master artisan Li Zezhi is also in temporary residence in Lou Kau Mansion to demonstrate Laixi Gourd Carving, an art handed down through the generations for more than 400 years. Its lace-like ‘openwork pattern’ won it an inscription in the first batch of the Municipal-level Intangible Cultural Heritage of Qingdao. Li excels at producing themed carvings with traditional auspicious connotations, historical stories, myths and legends.

Time: 9:00am to 7:00pm (Closed on Mondays, open on public holidays)
For details of Arts & Crafts Demonstration and Workshop, please refer to organizer.
Address: No. 7, Travessa da Sé
Admission: Free
Enquiries: (853) 8399 6699
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau
http://www.icm.gov.mo

Taipa Flea Market (22/1 - 24/6)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Itching to get your hands on some great mementos of Macau? Get yourself along to the Taipa Flea Market on Sunday. It’s easily accessible from Taipa High Street and comprises dozens of stalls selling hundreds of surprise items! From period postcards to stamps to lamps, jade pieces, jewellery, coins, toys, collectibles and bric-a-brac of every description. Visitors regularly flock to the market between Rua do Cunha and Rua de Regedor in the heart of the old village searching for that elusive souvenir, and not many come away disappointed! The district also hosts an interactive street show when the weather permits.

Time: 11:00am to 8:00pm (Sundays)
Venue: Bombeiros Square, Taipa
Enquiries: (853) 2833 7676
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
http://www.iacm.gov.mo

'Script Road' Travels Literary Terrain (29/1 - 4/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Local Portuguese newspaper Ponto Final, celebrating its 20th anniversary throughout January and early February, has assembled Chinese and Portuguese-speaking writers, filmmakers and artists to showcase, debate and perform their works, exploring differences and common ground adopted in the creative process.

The ‘Script Road’ Macau Literary Festival brings together writers from Portuguese countries, Mainland China and Macau. And there will also be nightly film screenings, exhibitions and musical performances, with the occasion presenting the opportunity to remember the late, prolific Macanese writer Henrique de Senna Fernandes via a specially held memorial service.

For details, please refer to organizer.
Enquiries: (853) 2833 9566
Organizer: Ponto Final
http://www.thescriptroad.org

Romantic Macau the ideal Backdrop to St. Valentine’s Day

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

St. Valentine’s Day (14/2) - named, some say, for a 3rd Century Roman priest smitten by his jailer’s daughter - is the traditional time for the modern love-struck, in particular, to express their affection for a loved one by sending anonymous cards, flowers or chocolates with messages of love.

A kinder fate awaits lovers in Macau, where so much of the old city is rich in romantic associations and often used for film sets. A stroll through Travessa da Paixão (Love Lane) is a delight at any time but surely has added significance on this special day. Ideal for the tongue-tied! Cathedral Square and Calçada da Igreja de S. Lázaro are also ideal places to drink in the romance of the architecture, and a visit to the Taipa Houses-Museum on Av. da Praia, overlooking the banyan tree-lined lake, is the perfect spot to relax in peace and quiet; in fact, so romantic is this setting that it is one of the first choices for couples to have their wedding photos taken - so bring your camera! While you’re in a cuddly, photo-taking frame of mind, why not travel a little further to picturesque Coloane Island, a country park that is home to adorable giant pandas Kai Kai and Xin Xin in Seac Pai Van Park. Towering above the Macao Giant Panda Pavilion is Asia’s tallest Kun Iam (Goddess of Mercy) statue and palace on Mt. Coloane, while just up the road you can find romantic old Coloane Village and the freshening, carefree breezes of Cheoc Van and Hac Sa beaches.

Macau is also the St. Valentine’s Day venue of choice for fun-lovers, too. The diversity of exciting new resort hotels and world-class entertainment such as the House of Dancing Water in the City of Dreams and ZAiA in The Venetian adds a magic ingredient to a city big on fireworks, fine dining and lanterns. And with the Lantern Festival falling on February 6 this year, with its games, riddles and beautiful displays, a package tour sounds just the ticket!

Former Home of Revolutionary Leader Ye Ting Now Open to Public

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

In order to commemorate the role that military leader Ye Ting holds in the history of modern China, the Macau SAR Government, in collaboration with the Women's General Association, recently commissioned the repair of the revolutionary’s former residence in addition to organizing a photographic exhibition of his life as ‘a tribute to the revolutionary and his choice of Macau as a second home’.

In order to faithfully restore the old building’s facade and mount the exhibition, the Cultural Affairs Bureau enrolled the help of Ye Ting’s sons and the city of Huizhou, who provided photographs and materials from the Museum of Ye Ting. Following this first phase of restoration, the Cultural Affairs Bureau plans to enlarge and further restore the interiors of the house in order to leave a legacy for future generations.

Time: 10:00am to 6:00pm (Open on public holidays)
Address: 76, Rua Almirante Costa Cabral
Admission: Free
Enquiries: (853) 8399 6699
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau
http://www.icm.gov.mo

Time-strapped Tourists Opt for Handy ‘WH Macau’ App

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

With the Cultural Affairs Bureau’s ‘WH Macau’ App, the city’s World Heritage sites are just a sweep of the fingers away. This handy application - which can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Android Market by searching ‘WH Macau’ or ‘Macau World Heritage’ or http://www.macauheritage.net- provides useful contact numbers for enquiries and emergencies/assistance in traditional and simplex Chinese, English and Portuguese.

Harnessing the magic of the Global Positioning System to pinpoint sites throughout the Historic Centre of Macau, its 360-degree virtual reality images and video clips can be accessed by mobile phones anywhere in the world. Programmes can also be downloaded via the free wi-fi service offered by the Ruins of St. Paul’s information desk in downtown Macau.

Enquiries: (853) 8399 6699
http://www.icm.gov.mo

At Your Service! Consumer Council Imposes Stringent New Standards

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The Consumer Council has recently added class gradings in addition to its current score system addressing some 30 criteria including adherence to the Code of Practice. Some 1,190 ‘Adherents’ have been awarded the 2012 ‘Certified Shop’ logo, while nine establishments have been graded ‘Class A Certified Shop’ for the first time. If purchased goods are defective in any way, buyers can lodge a complaint with the Consumer Council and the case may be referred to the Consumer Arbitration Centre, which provides guaranteed shopping. Look for the new logo - and happy shopping!

Consumer Council Enquiries: (853) 8988 9315
http://www.consumer.gov.mo

Macau Holy House of Mercy Opens New Exhibition Hall

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The historical building of the Macau Holy House of Mercy, overlooking Senado Square and Macau’s oldest social solidarity organization, was founded in 1569, as the last refuge of the sick and needy and today houses a museum. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site with many other imposing squares and buildings in 2005, visitors are drawn by the religious artifacts on display and the cool, renovated serenity of the building.

A veritable time capsule of Macau and its multi-cultural make-up, some 120 Jesuit statues and ceramics are on display in the Macau Holy House of Mercy’s exhibition halls.

Time: 9:00am to 1:00pm, 2:30pm to 5:30pm (Closed on Sundays & public holidays)
Address: No. 2, Travessa da Misericórdia (near Senado Square)
Admission: MOP5
Enquiries: (853) 2857 3938, 2833 7503
Organizer: Macau Holy House of Mercy
http://www.scmm.mo

Quality of Life, 2012 Culture Show (10-12/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The ‘Quality of Life, 2012 Culture Show’introduces a smorgasbord of cultures from Macau, Mainland China and countries from around the world. New knowledge areas - embracing all things new from children’s products to human cytology and life science products - will challenge the status quo, while hotel supplies booths and pavilions will dazzle with advanced cutlery, lighting, ornate furniture, modern appliances and cutting-edge interior design. In addition, look for products and services improving the quality of everyday life plus star Hong Kong entertainers, models and interactive games. Networking sessions will also enable exhibitors to meet local and international business prospects.

Time: noon to 8:00pm
Venue: CotaiExpo, The Venetian Macao-Resort-Hotel
Admission: Free
Enquiries: (853) 6358 3964
Organizers: Millennium Exhibition & Consulting Co., Ltd., Macau Spiritual Health & Culture Association
http://www.ko-meng.com

Dai Kai Art Fair (11-12/2)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Macau has a long and illustrious history of patronizing art, with past resident giants in the field like Chinnery and Smirnoff immortalizing the scenes and landscapes of bygone Macau. The tradition of capturing the essence of this place has passed down through the ages, with the modern generation well served by the Dai Kai Art Fair, held ten times a year on the second weekend of every month with the exception of May and November. This popular fair enables local art lovers to showcase and sell their own products, while introducing the casual visitor to a treasure trove of local talent.

Time: 3:00pm to 8:00pm
Venue: Communal area in Rua dos Marcadores
Admission: Free
Enquiries: (853) 8988 4000
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
http://www.iacm.gov.mo

Through the Streets - Pleasure Tour through Taipa’s Historical Quarter

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The tour presents a remarkable peek into an enchanting village honeycombed with twisting, narrow lanes and dotted with little houses painted in every Mediterranean hue. Vibrant and still ‘local,’ Taipa is a study in the old brushing shoulders with the new. Routes and themes change every weekend, while your tour guide will introduce the buildings and attractions via interactive Q&A sessions at Carmo’s Fair before embarking on this voyage of discovery. Visitors can choose their own route according to the map of Taipa’s Historic Quarter and Q&A sheet . . . or follow the tour guide.

Time: 2:30pm to 5:00pm
Starting Point: Carmo’s Fair, Taipa
Admission: Free (Registration via tel: (853) 8394 3789 or online enrolment at http://www.iacm.gov.mo)
Language: Cantonese
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau

In the Interstices of Memory: Macau Contemporary Drawings (27/10/2011 - 12/2/2012)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

This exhibition showcases more than 50 sets of drawings in various styles and forms created by Macau artists Wong Cheng Pou, Konstantin Bessmertny, Frank Lei Ioi Fan, Andre Lui Chak Keong, Ung Vai Meng, Christopher (Kit) Kelen, Carlos Marreiros, Lok Tai Tong, Lampo Leong, Chan Kai Chon and Wong Ka Long.

Ranging from refined realistic works to abstract creations of spiritual resonance, these works serve to reflect the contemporary drawing phenomenon of Macau in a more comprehensive manner, in the tradition of resident 19th Century masters George Chinnery and Auguste Borget and 20th Century celebrity George Smirnoff.

Time: 10:00am to 7:00pm (No admission after 6:30pm, closed on Mondays)
Venue: Macau Museum of Art, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Museum Admission: MOP5 (Free on Sundays and public holidays)
Enquiries: (853) 8791 9814
Organizer: Macau Museum of Art
http://www.artmuseum.gov.mo

A Century of the Imperial Palace and Gardens (24/11/2011 - 11/3/2012)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

'A Century of the Imperial Palace and Gardens: Photographs by Hou Yuanchao’ showcases 70 photographs characterised by their high density and large tonal range by Mainland photographer Hou Yuanchao, whose perspectives of the Imperial Palace (also known as the Forbidden City), the Summer Palace, the Old Summer Palace, the Eastern Qing Tombs and the Temple of Azure Clouds put the accoutrements of the royal family of the Qing Court under his uniquely creative microscope. Exhibition-goers continue to be fascinated by the various halls, pavilions, temples, doors and aisles as well as the patterns and motifs on stone carvings and the grandeur of the imperial vessels and cultural relics of the Forbidden City in addition to the surrounding royal gardens.

‘Lost and Found’ - Exhibition of Works by James Wong (3/12/2011 ~ 4/3/2012)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Known for his insightful questioning of artistic norms, renowned local artist James Wong is showing 72 paintings and sculptures in Art Base Gallery throughout the winter. Wong has devoted his career to printmaking and art education, and both aficionados of his work and newcomers to his paintings and sculptures are sure to find a variety of subject matter that ‘talks’ to them.

Time: 10:0am to 8:00pm daily (Open on public holidays)
Venue: Art Base 1 Gallery, Avenida do Almirante Lacerda, Edf. Ind.
Admission: Free
Enquiries: (853) 8988 9235
Organizer: Penha Creative Association
http://www.artbase1.org.mo

Printed Legacy A Beauty to Behold (3/12/2011 - 4/3/2012)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

‘The Printed Legacy - Prints Collection of Arthur M. Sackler Museum of Art and Archaeology at Peking University’ showcases 107 works by 10 Western masters, including a compilation by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and other renowned artists, the ‘realistic’ series by Honore Daumier and the ‘drama play’ series by Eugene Delacroix.

Vivid and impactful, these wonderful works enable us to understand the different forms they employed to express what they saw and heard, and how they felt, with each piece recording a new perspective envisaged by the artist. This feast of art speaks to the viewer across the centuries in such a way that we can intuitively appreciate the works’ conceptual meanings and artistic realms.

Time: 9:00am to 9:00pm daily (Open on public holidays)
Venue: Temporary Exhibition Gallery of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau, No. 163, Av. Almeida Ribeiro
Admission: Free
Enquiries: (853) 8988 4100
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
http://www.iacm.gov.mo/museum

Beauty & Entirety: Ceramics of the Song Dynasty from the Palace Museum (8/12/2011 - 11/3/2012)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The Macau Museum of Art is currently showcasing 187 priceless Song Dynasty imperial and ‘folk’ ceramic ware pieces normally housed in the Palace Museum in Beijing. This era represented the zenith of the art, the aesthetic benchmark for succeeding centuries, and in this display exhibition-goers may experience sections devoted to ‘Imperial Elegance’ and ‘Poetic Fancy of the Folk’, with representative ceramic ware from both the imperial kilns and the kilns of the common people.

Infection, Industria, Upsych - Contemporary Photography Exhibition (10/12/2011 - 19/2/2012)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

This exhibition currently showing in Tap Seac Gallery features three series of photographic works - ‘Infection’, ‘Industria’ and ‘Upsych’ - by acclaimed Czech contemporary photographer Vaclav Jirasek, whose works vividly document the beautiful aspects of everyday life.

The exhibition is one of the cultural events organised by the Embassyart under the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Beijing from 2010 to 2013, with the purpose of building a bridge of culture, dialogue and friendship between the Czech Republic and China, and promoting a dialogue between the people of these two countries.

Time: 10:00am to 7:00pm daily (Open on public holidays)
Venue: Tap Seac Gallery, Av. do Conselheiro Ferreira de Almeida, No. 95
Admission: Free
Enquiries: (853) 2836 6866
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau
http://www.macauart.net

Nostalgia Refreshed: Old Macau + New Media (17/12/2011 - 1/4/2012)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

This golden cultural nugget serves to remind us of the scenes of old Macau through the lens of some 200 photographs and contemporary art. The documentary photographic exhibition features the works of Macau’s most experienced photographers, including Ruins of St. Paul’s, National Day Decorated Archways; The Sun and the Sails and Scenes of Old Streets. In addition, eight artists participate in the second part of the exhibition, interpreting old Macau via interactive multimedia installation, animation, video installation, dance theatre and other creative techniques.

REality Exhibition - Out of Place (24/12/2011 - 19/2/2012)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

‘Out of Place’ is a memoir written by Edward Said in old age having being an exile for most of his life in the Arab world in which he grew up. His experiences and reflections on a nomadic life serve as the inspiration for Leung Mee-ping’s ‘REality exhibition - Out of Place,’ which questions the notion of ‘elsewhere’ in Asia, and by extension, what kind of ‘elsewhere’ Macau represents.

Time: noon to 7:00pm (Closed on Tuesdays)
Venue: Ox Warehouse, Intersection of Av. do Coronel Mesquita and Av. do Almirante Lacerda
Enquiries: (853) 2853 0026
Organizer: Ox Warehouse
http://oxwarehouse.blogspot.com

Sculpture Park of the Chinese Ethnics

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Macau SAR, the Organizing Committee of the Sculpture Park of the Chinese Ethnics assembled 56 renowned contemporary artisans to sculpt the 56 ethnic groups of China in bronze, which were then gifted to the Macau SAR. Standing in 13,000sq.m. of scenic Grand Taipa Natural Park, they add an attractive dimension to the hilltop landscape with its beautiful city views, while the 160sq.m. Exhibition Centre is a must-see. The walk or drive up the hill presents a fairly steep gradient but is well worth the view - both en route and from the top.

Time: Sculpture Zone: 24 hours / Exhibition Centre: 10:00am to 6:00pm (Closed on Mondays)
Venue: Grand Taipa Natural Park, Taipa
Admission: Free
Enquiries: (853) 2885 0866 / 8988 4000
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
http://www.iacm.gov.mo/museum

Exhibition of Lunar New Year Traditions of Zhejiang Province and Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (19/1 - 4/3)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Lou Lim Ieoc Garden and Macau Tea Culture House play host to the ‘Celebrating Spring Festival with Poems and Strings - Exhibition of Lunar New Year Traditions of Zhejiang Province and Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region,’ in which hundreds of New Year exhibits from Zhejiang Province and Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region will be displayed. Look for costumes, embroidery, musical instruments and eating utensils plus arts and crafts demonstrations by artists from Zhejiang and Xinjiang. Lou Lim Ieoc Garden is the only Suzhou-style garden in Macau, while the Western-style Macau Tea Culture House, topped with coloured roof tiles, is situated near by.

Time: 9:00am to 7:00pm daily (Open on public holidays)
Venue: Pavilion of Lou Lim Ieoc Garden & Macau Tea Culture House, No. 10 Est. de Adolfo Loureiro
Admission: Free
Enquiries: (853) 8988 4100
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
http://www.iacm.gov.mo/museum

'The Soaring Dance - Drunken Dragon Festival in Macau' Exhibition (19/1 - 15/4)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

The Drunken Dragon Festival, unique to Macau fishermen, was listed in the third batch of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List on 23rd May, 2011. The Drunken Dragon Dance Parade and the distribution of dragon boat longevity rice are not only of high cultural significance but fascinating to watch.

‘The Soaring Dance - Drunken Dragon Festival in Macau’ - comprising sections dedicated to ‘Overview,’ ‘History’, the ‘Drunken Dragon Festival’ and ‘Heritance and Network’ - also features some 11 works made with different materials and techniques by students in order to instil in the younger generation a sense of belonging and appreciation of the old, disappearing traditions.

Time: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (No admission after 5:30 pm, closed on Mondays)
Admission: MOP15 (Free on 15th every month)
Venue: Macau Museum, Macau Museum Square No. 112
Enquiries: (853) 2835 7911
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau
http://www.macaumuseum.gov.mo

Soul OUT! (24/2 - 3/4)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:48:34 +0800

Devoted to full-time art, Pakeong experiments with visual art, music and live performance. In addition to his ‘Crying out Loud’ live music shows, Pakeong is renowned for his live drawing performances. From his highly stylish monotone drawings to today's trial with colours, Pakeong has incessantly projected his own soul onto his art in an attempt to transcend his own self. ‘Soul OUT!’ is indeed the expression of the artist's absolute attitude toward creativity without reservation. This exhibition showcases his drawings, ready-made objects, sound and installations, marking a milestone on Pakeong’s creative journey.

Time: noon to 7:00pm (Closed on Sundays and public holidays)
Venue: Art for All Society, No. 52, Est. da Areia Preta, Edificio da Fabrica de Baterias N.E. National, 10th Floor
Admission: Free
Enquiries: (853) 2836 6064
Organizer: Art for All Society
http://www.afamacau.com