The whole city becomes one big stage when the Macau City Fringe brings multi-talented artists together from around the world and around the region. The 14th Macau Myanmar Overseas Chinese Water Festival promises to be a colourful and fun-filled experience . . . while Chinese Opera buffs can see traditional performances in specially constructed bamboo sheds during the A-Ma Festival. Macau Fisherman's Wharf offers great games for children during the Easter holiday. And the Ching Ming Festival is on the way . . .

Enjoy free lion dances and Portuguese folk dance performances at the A-Ma Temple and Ruins of St. Paul's during weekends, or catch the Macau International Film and Video Festival 2009 to enjoy a smorgasbord of films and videos made in a variety of cities. The Chinese literary classic 'Sunrise' has been adapted to a modern Macau version - and the World Book & Copyright Day is just around the corner, offering a great opportunity to purchase books at the 2009 Spring Reading Cultural Festival. 

The Cultural Affairs Bureau presents a slew of musical extravaganzas including 'A Stroll through Vienna Concert', 'Mendelssohn and Brahms Concert', 'Musical Panorama of the Minorities Concert', 'Liu Wenjin and the Macau Chinese Orchestra Concert' and 'Easter Concert'. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Sinfonietta presents the 'McDull Concert' and Macau Youth Symphony Orchestra presents its 'Youth Musical Concert'. Or catch Grammy Award-winning recording artist John Legend's 'The Evolver World Tour', Thai pop singer Tata Young's Concert and famous Hong Kong singer 'Jenny Tseng Live in Concert 2009 Macau' at CotaiArena and the Sands Theatre. Cristina Branco's 'Live' Concert presents her modern version of Fado . . . and the 6th Macau and Zhuhai Dance Night presents Latin and Chinese traditional performances.  

The 2009 MIECF - International Environmental Co-operation Forum and Exhibition presents the latest green products and information. Learn traditional handicrafts at the heritage-listed Lou Kau Mansion and learn more about the story of Macau's churches through the free church guide tour.

Macau Tea Culture House is hosting an exhibition entitled 'Exhibition of China Tea Culture Literature' to highlight valuable insights into the culture of Chinese tea. You can also take in 'Paintings by Su Liupeng from the MAM Collection' - and if you like the idea of supporting local art, why not pop along to the Ox Warehouse, Creative Macau, St. Paul's Fine Arts, 10 Fantasia and Meow Space.

3 to 12 Apr - Reading in Macau

Shakespeare's death on April 23, 1616 is a symbolic date for world literature and has appropriately been selected for World Book & Copyright Day by UNESCO to promote reading, publishing and the protection of intellectual property through copyright.

The 2009 Spring Reading Cultural Festival is held in Macau with a great variety of professional and entertainment literature from different countries with at least ten seminars scheduled.
   
In addition, why not visit the libraries in the Historic Centre of Macau. The Sir Robert Ho Tung Library is located off St. Augustine's Square and is set amid small peaceful gardens, while the Leal Senado Building Library has amassed a valuable collection of 17th Century literature, including the first Macau newspaper - A Abelha da China - which was founded in 1822.

2009 Spring Reading Cultural Festival
Date & Time:
Apr 3 - 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.   
Apr 4 to 10 - 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Apr 11 to 12 - 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Admission free
Venue: Tap Seac Multisport Pavilion, Av. Sidónio Pais
Organizers: Macau Publications Association, Macau Polytechnic Institute
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2837 5570

3 to 12 Apr - Macau International Film and Video Festival 2009

This year's programme features the city's productions in its 'Macau Indies' section, with CCM receiving short films, videos, documentaries, animation films, music videos and experimental works - plus an exciting selection of top-quality international films from the 33rd Hong Kong International Film Festival.

The seminar 'City x Film x City' invites veteran filmmakers Chen Huen-en, Chow Keung, Vincent Chui and Tai Ah to discuss the relationship between the development of 'the city' and films.

Film and Video
Venue: Small Auditorium, Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Admission: MOP$40

Seminar
Venue: Conference Room, Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Languages: Cantonese & Mandarin
Admission: MOP$40

Organizer: Macau Cultural Centre    
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2870 0699
http://www.ccm.gov.mo

4 Apr - Ching Ming Festival

The Ching Ming Festival is also known in English as Tomb Sweeping Day and occurs on the 15th day of the Spring Equinox (April 4 this year). Many people visit the Protestant Cemetery near Luís de Camões Garden to view the last resting place of the celebrated British painter George Chinnery. The tombs of a family member of Lord Spencer Churchill and the missionary Robert Morrison, who first translated the Bible into Chinese, can also be seen here.

Another ancient Western cemetery can be found at Estrada do Cemitério, close to Tap Seac Square, where many of the headstones are elaborately worked in marked contrast to many of the simpler historic markers.

4, 5, 11, 18, 25, 26 Apr - Chinese Lion Dances and Portuguese Folk Dances

Macau's unique cultural heritage is traditionally highlighted through Portuguese folk dances and Chinese lion dance performances that unfailingly delight spectators of all nationalities. Macau Government Tourist Office regularly hosts these popular tourist attractions at A-Ma Temple and the Ruins of St. Paul's, both of which are prominent landmarks in the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Macau. Visitors to the city can enjoy free performances on selected Saturdays and Sundays.

Lion Dance Performance (4, 11, 18, 25 Apr, Saturdays)
Time & Venue:
Barra Square (A-Ma Temple) - 3:00 p.m.
Ruins of St. Paul's - 4:00 p.m. (Except on 18 Apr)

Portuguese Folk Dance Performance (5 & 26 Apr, Sundays)
Time & Venue:
Ruins of St. Paul's - 11:00 a.m.
Barra Square (A-Ma Temple) - 12:00 noon

Organizer: Macau Government Tourist Office
Tourism hotline: (853) 2833 3000
http://www.macautourism.gov.mo
Duration: Approx. 20 minutes

10 to 26 Apr - Macau City Fringe 2009

If you are an avid theatregoer, Macau City Fringe will surprise you by presenting theatrical experiences everywhere but in the theatre - and bands will perform in a swimming pool or terrace under fantastic multimedia lighting. 'The Dream of Red Mansions' will be performed in the highly atmospheric Lou Lim Ieoc Garden, while several art exhibitions will take over Tap Seac Square and selected downtown venues. Do check them out!

For details, please refer to organizer.
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2833 7676
http://www.macaucityfringe.gov.mo

10 to 12 Apr - Easter Trip to Macau

This Easter, the White Rabbit, Caterpillar, Dinah the Cat, the Queen and Knave of Hearts all await you in Macau Fisherman's Wharf. Want to walk into the Wonderland in person . . . or is the Easter workshop more to your taste? Lots of surprises in store at Macau Fisherman's Wharf this month!

If you like relaxing solitude, visit Coloane for a wonderful tea party. Portuguese egg tarts are at the top of many visitors' lists, and while crisp, flaky cups filled with smooth egg pudding are the order of the day in picturesque Coloane Village, you can also taste egg-based confections from a Senado Square foodstall.

Macau Fisherman's Wharf
Admission free
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8299 3300
http://www.fishermanswharf.com.mo

16 to 20 Apr - Chinese Operas Celebrate A-Ma Festival

The Barra Square (A-Ma Temple) dedicated to the Taoist goddess A-Ma, the protector of fisher-folk, is believed to be the place where the Portuguese first landed in Macau. The site was known as 'A Ma Gao' at the time (the bay of A-Ma) hence the modern name 'Macau'.

The A-Ma Festival occurs on the 23rd day of the third month of the lunar calendar (April 18 this year). A ceremony is held on April 16 at 3pm, and a series of Chinese operas will be held from April 16 to 20 in a specially constructed bamboo shed in Barra Square. You can also visit the 19.99 metre-high, 500-ton A-Ma statue that towers over the A-Ma Cultural Village on Alto de Coloane.

Chinese Opera Performance
Time: 8:00 p.m. (16 Apr), 1:30 p.m. & 8:00 p.m. (17 to 20 Apr)
Venue: Barra Square
Organizer: Associação de Opera Chinesa dos Moradores de Marítima Terrestre da Barra de Macau 
Co-organizer: Wu's Group
Sponsors: Macau Government Tourist Office, Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau, Cultural Affairs Bureau, Macau Foundation, Henry Fok Foundation, Orient Foundation
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2833 9261

24 to 27 Apr - 14th Macau Myanmar Overseas Chinese Water Festival

The annual Macau Myanmar Overseas Chinese Water Festival is held during this month. It has developed from a relatively simple event highlighted by traditional water splashing to a full carnival with an array of cultural performances, parade, traditional foods and photo exhibition.

The traditional food street, where festival-goers can sample snacks and drinks from Myanmar and Southeast Asia is held at the Macau Fisherman's Wharf. 

Water Festival Carnival:
26 Apr / 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. / Hác Sá Park, Coloane
Myanmar & South East Asia Delicacy & Cultural Festival:
25 Apr / Noon to 10:30 p.m. / Macau Fisherman's Wharf
Festooned Vehicle Parade:
25 & 26 Apr / 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. / Macau, Taipa & Coloane
(Starting point: In front of Hotline Centre, Alameda Dr. Carlos d'Assumpção, No. 335-341)
Jiangxi Sanqing Mountain Photo and Water Festival Photo Exhibition:
24 to 27 Apr / 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. / Lisbon Building, R/C, Macau Fisherman's Wharf

Organizer: Macau Myanmar Overseas Chinese Association
Co-organizers: Macau Government Tourist Office, Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Sponsors: Office of the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Cultural Affairs Bureau, Macau Foundation
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2855 3995
Admission free to all activities

31 Mar to 26 Apr - Create your own handicrafts in Lou Kau Mansion

Lou Kau Mansion - constructed in the style of the Lingnan region and listed as part of the Historic Centre of Macau - is believed to have been built in 1889 as the home of prominent Chinese merchant Lou Kau. It is a two-storey, traditional Chinese grey-brick courtyard house with decorative motifs integrating subtle Western influences such as Portuguese-style louvred windows and perforated wooden ceilings.

This month, the UNESCO Heritage-listed building hosts folk art shows featuring traditional handicrafts workshops and demonstrations, including bamboo sculpture and cross-stitch (31 Mar to 12 Apr), wood carving and pyrography (14 to 26 Apr).

Arts & Crafts Demonstration:
Time: noon to 7:00 p.m. (Tuesdays to Fridays)
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays)

Workshop:
Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Saturdays)
10:00 a.m. to noon; 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sundays)
Admission: MOP$20 (per 2-hour session)

Lou Kau Mansion Opening Hours:
9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Tuesdays to Sundays & Public Holidays)    
Admission free
Free Guided Tour: 
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays) 
Address: 7, Travessa da Sé
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8399 6699  
http://www.icm.gov.mo
http://www.macauheritage.net

Taipa Flea Market

Despite the recent surge of building and expansion of infrastructure in Taipa, this small island has managed to retain its village charm in the narrow streets and lanes where the Chinese and Portuguese have lived together so harmoniously for centuries. It's also become a magnet for local collectors looking for something out of the ordinary into the bargain!

Visitors regularly flock to the Sunday Taipa Flea Market between Rua do Cunha and Rua de Regedor in the heart of the old village in search of bric-a-brac, mementos, toys and souvenirs . . . and the district also hosts a street show on a fortnightly basis.
 
Time: Every Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Venue: Bombeiros Square, Taipa
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries for Taipa Flea Market: (853) 2833 7676
Telephone enquiries for Street Show: (853) 8988 4100

3 Apr - Musical Panorama of the Minorities Concert

Be beguiled by Chinese traditional music and witness the most charming solo and ensemble performances by the top virtuosos of the Macau Chinese Orchestra - a great opportunity to savour the musical confections of exotic Chinese instruments, while delighting in a colourful and ethnic 'Musical Panorama'.

Time: 8:00 p.m.  
Venue: Dom Pedro V Theatre - Mirror Hall, No. 3, St. Augustine's Square
Admission: MOP$20
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8399 6699
http://www.icm.gov.mo

10 & 11 Apr - Hong Kong Sinfonietta x McDull Concert

Making its way from comic book character to the animation film 'My life as McDull' - which earned the French Grand Prize at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival in 2003 - Hong Kong's most beloved cartoon piglet 'McDull' is now adapted for the Macau stage, in joint collaboration with the Hong Kong Sinfonietta (HKS) and Music Director Yip Wing-sie.

This multimedia project combines McDull's endearing animations with enchanting music played by the orchestra, while performing guest Ng Cheuk-Yin will take the stage in a surprise turn. Discover classical music in a fun and appetising way!

Time: 8:00 p.m.
Venue: Grand Auditorium, Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Admission: MOP$220, 180, 120, 80
Organizer: Macau Cultural Centre    
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2870 0699
http://www.ccm.gov.mo

10 Apr - John Legend 'The Evolver World Tour'

Five-time Grammy Award winning recording artist John Legend brings 'The Evolver World Tour' to Macau this month, featuring hits from his latest gold album 'Evolver' such as 'Green Light' and 'Everybody knows'. In 2004, Legend's debut album 'Get Lifted' sold more than three million copies worldwide to bring him the 'Best R&B Album' Grammy.

His world tour includes the Philippines, Korea, Japan and Shanghai as well as Macau, and all ticket holders are welcome to join the pool party - featuring world-class DJs and special performances - following the concert.

Time: 8:30 p.m.
Venue: Venetian Ballroom, the Venetian Macau-Resort-Hotel
Admission: MOP$1880, 1080, 780, 580
Organizer: The Venetian Macau-Resort-Hotel  
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2882 8818
http://www.cotaiticketing.com 

11 Apr - Jenny Tseng Live in Concert 2009 Macau

Macau-born singer Jenny Tseng, based in Hong Kong for much of her performing career, first reached a high level of popularity throughout the Chinese region during the early 1970's. In recent years, she has performed all over the world including the US, Canada, Australia, Malaysia and Mainland China, with her hometown fans very excited about her long-awaited return to Macau during the Easter break.

Time: 8:00 p.m.
Venue: CotaiArena, the Venetian Macau-Resort-Hotel
Admission: MOP$980, 600, 350, 180
Organizer: The Venetian Macau-Resort-Hotel   
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2882 8818
http://www.cotaiticketing.com

12 Apr - Easter Concert

Composed in 1846, one year before Mendelssohn died, the 'Elijah Oratorio' is widely considered the greatest piece ever written by the composer in his short life, and marks the pinnacle of the 19th Century German oratorio.
 
Acclaimed Chinese conductor Jahja Ling provides a fresh individual perspective on the story and the dramatic tension of this masterpiece, which promises to further reveal the brilliance and grace of this enduring work.

Time: 8:00 p.m.   Admission free
Venue: St. Dominic's Church, St. Dominic's Square
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau   
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8399 6699
http://www.icm.gov.mo/om
Tickets to be distributed in front of St. Dominic's Church one hour before concert starts.
Duration: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes (without intermission)

12 Apr - Tata Young Concert

Recognised as one of Thailand's major pop sensations, Tata Young debuts in Macau to showcase 'Temperature Rising' - her second full-length English language album. Tata has been a singing icon in Thailand since 2004 when she had a breakthrough in her career and became a world-renowned pop star with her debut English album: 'I Believe' which took nine platinums in Thailand and sold an amazing 300,000 CDs in Japan.

Tata has performed hundreds of times throughout Asia and her music is regularly played on music stations in Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and China.

Time: 8:00 p.m.
Venue: Venetian Ballroom, the Venetian Macau-Resort-Hotel
Admission: MOP$1590, 1190, 590, 390
Organizer: The Venetian Macau-Resort-Hotel  
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2882 8818
http://www.cotaiticketing.com 

18 Apr - A Stroll through Vienna - Classical Concert

The classical period in Western music is generally accepted as spanning 1730 to 1820, during which time the symphony, string quartet and sonata, Beethoven, Haydn and Mozart all rose to prominence in the public consciousness.

In this concert, the Macau Orchestra performs Beethoven's 'Serenade in D major', Haydn's 'String Quartet in D major' and Mozart's 'Serenade No. 11 in E flat major.'

Time: 8:00 p.m.  
Venue: Dom Pedro V Theatre, No. 3, St. Augustine's Square
Admission: MOP$30
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8399 6699
http://ww.icm.gov.mo/om
Duration: Approx. 1 hour 10 minutes (without intermission)

24 to 26 Apr - 'Sunrise' - A Chinese Classic set in Modern Macau

This month, Macau, Hong Kong and Korean artists join hands to perform 'Sunrise' - one of the most celebrated Chinese literary classics of all time scripted by renowned Chinese dramatist Cao Yu - against the backdrop of 'contemporary Macau', where the players have unearthed topical stories to merge into the theatre creation and hence offer the audience a direct glimpse of 'reality'. A limited number of 'stage seats' have been made available to give audiences a unique opportunity to get close to the actors and immerse themselves more intensely in the drama.

Time: 8:00 p.m.
Venue: Small Auditorium, Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Admission: MOP$140, 120
Organizer: Macau Cultural Centre    
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2870 0699
http://www.ccm.gov.mo
Duration: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes (without intermission)
Performed in Cantonese, with occasional dialogues in Mandarin and English.
For those aged 13 and above

25 Apr - Youth Pavilion on Expositions and Special Arts - A Place for Youth Creativity

The Youth Pavilion on Expositions and Special Arts, in the vicinity of Tap Seac Square, is a place where youth can revel in its talent and creativity through exhibitions and performances. This 1925 two-storey Portuguese-style building, with its Art Nouveau and Art Deco influences, is itself a work of art.

In addition, the Macau Youth Symphony Orchestra is hosting the 'Growth of New Seeds Series - Youth Musical Concert' at the Pavilion, featuring the works of Dvořák, Bach and others. Let's cheer on them!

Time: 4:00 p.m.
Admission free
Venue: Youth Pavilion on Expositions and Special Arts, Tap Seac Square
Organizer: Macau Youth Symphony Orchestra    
Sponsor: Education and Youth Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2825 2899
http://www.macauyso.org.mo
Duration: Approx. 1 hour (without intermission)

25 Apr - Mendelssohn and Brahms Concert

The 'Violin and Cello Concerto' was Brahms' last concerto and is known for its grace and noble temperament, while its technical difficulty continues to present a challenge to soloists and orchestras alike.

Mendelssohn completed his Symphony No. 3 'Scotland' thirteen years after his visit to that northern land, and the work is permeated with elements of Scottish folk music. Lü Jia conducts the Macau Orchestra in the performance of these beloved compositions.

Violin: Lu Wei
Cello: Zhao Jing
Conductor: Lü Jia
Time: 8:00 p.m.
Venue: Grand Auditorium, Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Admission: MOP$120, 80
Organizer: Macau Cultural Centre    
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2870 0699
http://www.ccm.gov.mo
Duration: Approx. 1 hour 35 minutes (inc. 15 minutes intermission)

26 Apr - Liu Wenjin and Macau Chinese Orchestra Concert

Renowned Chinese music composer and conductor Liu Wenjin works with the Macau Chinese Orchestra to conduct masterpieces such as 'The Moon Reflected', 'Jasmine' and 'Butterfly Lovers', etc. In addition, acclaimed Chinese Liuqin (a four-stringed Chinese lute with a pear-shaped body) player Zhang Xinhua presents the sentimental and delicate piece 'Drinking Song'.

The Liuqin is also known as the Willow-leaf Qin because it resembles a willow leaf. Boasting the highest pitch of any of the plucked string instruments, it was once an important accompanying instrument in traditional Chinese Opera.

Time: 8:00 p.m.  
Venue: Hall, Macau Polytechnic Institute, Rua de Luís Gonzaga Gomes
Admission: MOP$60, 40
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8399 6699
http://www.icm.gov.mo

27 Apr - 6th Macau and Zhuhai Dance Night

Professional dancers from Mainland China and Macau will perform a series of Chinese dances, erhu solo, Chinese mask changing (traditional Sichuan performance) plus Latin dance and Portuguese folk and street dances in this unique night-time show.  

Time: 8:00 p.m.
Admission by free ticket available at any outlet of Kong Seng Paging Ltd.,
Tel: (853) 2855 5555
Venue: Macau Forum I, Av. de Marciano Baptista
Organizers: Macau Dancing Association, Zhuhai Dancers Association
Sponsors: Cultural Affairs Bureau, Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau, Macau Foundation, Henry Fok Foundation    
Telephone enquiries: (853) 6682 5278

28 Apr - Cristina Branco Live - Homage to Amália Rodrigues

This concert features Cristina Branco's most recent repertoire and classical fados such as the very famous 'Ai Maria' and 'Barco Negro'. 

In this concert the most touching interpreter of her own generation plays with the different forms of relationship between modernity and tradition: modernity expressed by the unique style evident in all her albums, and tradition because when she sings an older fado she does it in the most respectful way.

Time: 8:00 p.m.
Venue: Grand Auditorium, Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Admission: MOP$200, 150, 100
Organizer: Casa de Portugal em Macau    
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2872 6828
http://www.ccm.gov.mo
Duration: Approx. 2 hours (without intermission)

2 to 4 Apr - 2009 MIECF - International Environmental Co-operation Forum and Exhibition

In keeping with the topical 'green' spirit, 2009 MIECF presents the Global Green Gathering (3G), combining ecological responsibility and social commitment to promote optimism in a Green Future.

The exhibition - which has attracted more than 180 exhibitors - comprises various themed exhibition areas/pavilions including the Macau Pavilion, Pan-Pearl River Delta Provinces/Regions Pavilion, EU Pavilion, etc. Government, commerce, non-profit organizations and academics present research, technology, products, and information related to environmental issues that urgently need addressing. The public are welcome to visit the exhibition on its last day.

Exhibition
Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Apr 2 & 3 - Trade visitors only / Apr 4 - Free for public)
Venue: CotaiExpo, the Venetian Macau-Resort-Hotel 
Organizer: Macau SAR Government
Organizing Committee: Macau Trade and Investment Promotion Institute, Environment Council
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8798 9675, 8798 9610
http://www.macaomiecf.com

9 to 30 Apr - 'Unknown - A miracle vision' Exhibition

Américo das Neves is a Macanese designer known as a graphic designer who decided to take a risk in displaying digital illustration, drawing figures of humankind and monsters and other unknown creatures . . . He hopes to see you step into his 'unknown' exhibition and step out knowing a little bit more about him as an artist and designer.

Opening Hours: 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Closed on Sundays)
Admission free
Venue: Creative Macau, G Floor, Macau Cultural Centre, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Organizer: Centre for Creative Industries
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2875 3282
http://www.creativemacau.org.mo 

10 Apr to 5 Jul - The Palette of Macau: An Exhibition of Urban Colours

Opening Hours: 10:00am - 7:00pm (no admittance after 6:30pm, closed on Mondays)
Admission free
Venue: Special Exhibition Gallery, Handover Gifts Museum of Macau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8504 1800
http://handovermuseum.iacm.gov.mo

10 Apr to 5 May - You hua - Julia Lam Solo Exhibition

Julia Lam Tszkwan was born and raised in Macau. Using water colours, oils, and sketches, she captures the human and natural environment of her beloved hometown and other cities.

'You hua' in standard Chinese Pinyin contains in its meanings two possible translations. The first, simply put, sounds like Chinese 'oil painting'. The second means 'travel and paint'. This exhibition presents some of the artist's most memorable travel experiences, made all the more vivid and inspiring by her fresh and original oil painting techniques.

Opening Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)
Admission free
Venue: 10 Fantasia, Calçada da Igreja de S. Lázaro, No.10
Organizer: Creative Industries Promotion Association of St. Lazarus Church District
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2835 4582

10 Apr to 9 Aug - The Gleaming Qing Ming - Exhibition of Chinese Tea Culture Literature

The Qingming festival holds great significance in Chinese tea culture since this specific day divides the fresh green teas by their picking dates. Green teas made from leaves picked before this date are given the prestigious 'pre-Qingming' designation, which in turn commands a much higher price.
 
In this exhibition, visitors can find Chinese tea culture literature of the Ming and Qing dynasties - plus 'The Classic of Tea' written by Lu Yu in the Tang Dynasty.

Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays, open on public holidays)
Admission free
Venue: Macau Tea Culture House, Lou Lim Ieoc Garden, Est. de Adolfo Loureiro No. 10
Organizer: Macau Tea Culture House of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2882 7103, 2858 6250
http://www.iacm.gov.mo/museum

11 Apr to 24 May - This's Me! - Creative Works by Kit Pond and Kevin Lam

Opening Hours: noon to 7:00 p.m. (Closed on Tuesdays)
Admission free
Venue: Ox Warehouse, Intersection of Av. do Coronel Mesquita and Av. do Almirante Lacerda
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2853 0026
http://oxwarehouse.blogspot.com

24 Apr to 9 Aug - Rediscovery of a Dreamland: Paintings by Su Liupeng from the MAM Collection

This exhibition features 80 works by renowned Cantonese painter Su Liupeng, who was active in the mid to late Qing Dynasty. After mastering his painting skills at the Mountain Luofu Monastery, Su embarked upon his career as a painter and teacher in Guangzhou, adopting the style of the Song and Yuan. He excelled in portraits and genre paintings - which vividly reflect common life in the mid-Qing Dynasty.  

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (No admission after 6:30 p.m., closed on Mondays)
Admission: MOP$5 (Free on Sundays)
Venue: 4th floor, Chinese Painting Gallery, Macau Museum of Art, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Organizer: Macau Museum of Art of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8791 9814
http://www.artmuseum.gov.mo

5 Dec 2008 to 5 Apr 2009 - 'Ingenious Woodwork - Macau Religious Figure Carving' Exhibition

'Wood Carving - Religious Figure Carving of Macau' was successfully inscribed on the second list of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List in June 2008, to the great delight of the citizens of Macau. The Macau Museum will host this special exhibition with regard to the art's history and craft in order that locals and visitors alike may come to appreciate its cultural significance and reference to humanity.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (No admission at 5:30 p.m., closed on Mondays)
Admission: MOP$15 (Free on 15th every month)
Venue: Macau Museum, Macau Museum Square No. 112
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2835 7911, 2833 5141
http://www.macaumuseum.gov.mo

21 Mar to 12 Apr - Artworks of the Winners of New Talent Prize of the XXIV Collective Exhibition of Macau Artists, Chang Cheng Cheng, Kou Sio Nga, Lam Wai In

Opening Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily
Admission free
Venue: Commentator Ho In Room, Clube Militar of Macau, Av. da Praia Grande, 975
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8988 4100, 2882 7882

28 Feb to 12 Apr - Doors in Black and White - Exhibition of Sketches and Portraits by Lok Hei

In creating masterful sketches, artists capture features and feelings that can change in moments. Local artist Lok Hei has sketched dozens of landscape scenes and people, and likes to depict detailed moments in the life of 'sitters' from different social stratum.

With 'black' and 'white' the theme of this exhibition, Lok has selected around 100 examples of his sketches from travels in Mainland China and around the world over the past ten years, as well as local works.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays, open on public holidays)
Admission free
Venue: Exhibition Gallery, the Taipa Houses-Museum, Av. da Praia, Taipa
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8988 4100, 2882 7882
http://www.iacm.gov.mo/museum

6 Mar to 12 Apr - Contemporary Art Works on Exhibit at Old Ladies' House

The Old Ladies' House - comprising two-storey Portuguese buildings located in the 'European' St. Lazarus district - was once used to house elderly spinsters. Today, under the auspices of the Holy House of Mercy, it serves as an interesting venue for the display of works by Macanese and Portuguese artists.

This month, talented young Chinese artist Mengshu exhibits her pottery works - skilfully combining traditional 'Tang Tricolor Pottery' with contemporary artistic forms - in the exhibition 'What do U Really Want?' The pottery is made up of thousands of tiles, each of which was fired by Mengshu herself. By using the special characteristics of Tang Tricolor high-lead glaze, the works project the dynamic balance between 'the controllable' and 'the uncontrollable' to symbolise the state in which human beings strike a balance between the growth and inhibition of all kinds of desires. 

Opening Hours: Noon to 7:30 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)
Admission free
Venue: Albergue Gallery, Calçada da Igreja de S. Lázaro, No.8-A2,
Organizer: Albergue SCM
Sponsor: Macau Foundation
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2852 2550

14 Mar to 12 Apr - Frozen in Time: Works of Art from the Chan Wai Hang Bequest

An enthusiast of history, culture and the traditional arts, the late Chan Wai Hang was a keen local collector who preserved the primary sources and materials related to Macau's culture. For many years, he was engaged in the collection of literature, documents, art works, ancient books, New Year pictures and export paintings relating to Lingnan culture. This exhibition showcases 37 pieces of work selected from the Chan family's donation. Exhibits primarily include export paintings, rice paper paintings, New Year woodblock prints, wood engravings, New Year paintings, etc.  

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (No admission after 6:30 p.m., closed on Mondays)
Admission: MOP$5 (Free on Sundays)
Venue: 3rd floor Gallery of Special Exhibitions, Macau Museum of Art, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Organizer: Macau Museum of Art of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8791 9814
http://www.artmuseum.gov.mo

15 Mar to 3 May - 'Ilha Verde - Cat' Cora Si Wun Cheng Photograph Exhibition

Situated in the northwest of the Macau Peninsula, the scruffy metal housing of Ilha Verde was removed a year ago - but memories linger and many local photographers visit Ilha Verde to record this special corner of Macau.
 
Photographer Cora Si this time employs stray cats as her subjects, following them back and forth in Ilha Verde, in a salute to days gone by.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Open on public holidays)  
Admission free
Venue: Meow Space, Cal. da Paz, No.14, Edf. Tai Heng, R/C
Organizer: Meow Space
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2893 2927

14 Mar to 3 May - The Philosophy of Serenity - On Paintings of Flowers & Birds by Huo Chunyang

The traditional paintings of China have always been greatly influenced by ancient philosophy and aesthetics, and painters invariably try to attain a peaceful mindset in their pursuit of elusive beauty.

Huo Chunyang, a professor in the Department of Chinese Painting at Tianjin Academy of Fine Arts, embraces peacefulness and 'emptiness' in his creations. His paintings, though natural, arouse rich visual sensations and exude an undulating rhythm and gracefulness. This exhibition - themed around the serenity of Huo Chunyang - showcases approximately 60 bird-and-flower paintings.

Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily (Open on public holidays)
Admission free
Venue: Temporary Exhibition Gallery of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau, Av. Almeida Ribeiro No. 163
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8988 4100, 2882 7882 

20 Feb to 10 May - Messages: An Exhibition of Posters from the Macau Museum of Art

The Macau Museum of Art has hosted more than 200 exhibitions and activities in the past 10 years. In order to celebrate its first decade, MAM will exhibit 50 of its most representative and thought provoking posters. Not to be missed!

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (No admission after 6:30 p.m., closed on Mondays)
Admission free
Venue: 1st floor Gallery, Macau Museum of Art, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Organizer: Macau Museum of Art of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8791 9814
http://www.artmuseum.gov.mo

27 Feb to 10 May - Chinese Contemporary Abstract Art Exhibition

Abstract art has its own unique form which overthrows the logic of perspective drawing in a departure from the traditional.

Renowned Chinese artists including Wang Lifeng, Shen Chen, Shen Kelong, Li Xiangming, Li Lei, Zhang Guolong and Dang Chaoyang have been invited by the Cultural Affairs Bureau to demonstrate their own contemporary abstract art in oils and acrylics.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Open on public holidays)
Admission free
Venue: Tap Seac Gallery, Av. do Conselheiro Ferreira de Almeida, No. 95
Organizer: Cultural Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2833 5140
http://www.macauart.net

22 Mar to 30 May - 2009 Borderless Arts Members Exhibition

Borderless Arts is a non-profit arts association formed in 2008, supported by some 20 members from different nationalities residing in Macau.  

This exhibition is the association's first activity and features about 20 paintings and photographs. Visitors can view art works by local artists as well as works by photographers and writers who attempt to capture and describe the phenomenon of society. Visitors can also gauge the influence of Chinese and Portuguese cultures from some of our Portuguese artists' works which often combine a lavish mixture of East and West.

Opening Hours: noon to 8:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)
Admission free
Venue: St. Paul's Corner 1st floor exhibition room, Trav. de S. Paulo, No. 3, 5 & 7
Organizer: Borderless Arts
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2842 2842
http://www.stpaulscorner.com

17 Feb to 7 Jun - 19th Century Chinese Etchings

Hundreds of years ago, Macau was the first port of call for foreign visitors entering Mainland China, and many paintings depict this unique era. The Macau Museum of Art has specially selected over 60 etchings from its collections for this exhibition, which detail the scenery and livelihood of the people of the Pearl River Delta and the northern part of China in the 19th Century.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (No admission after 6:30 p.m., closed on Mondays)
Admission: MOP$5 (Free on Sundays)
Venue: 3rd floor Gallery of Historical Pictures, Macau Museum of Art, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Organizer: Macau Museum of Art of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8791 9814
http://www.artmuseum.gov.mo

25 Mar to 21 Jun - Divergence: Macau's Proposed Artworks for the 53rd Venice Biennale

The Macau Museum of Art (MAM) will play its part in the 53rd Venice Biennale to be hosted by the Italian city from June to November 2009. For this reason, the museum has called for exhibit proposals on the theme of 'Divergence', from which the judging panel will select a dozen works, with two outstanding pieces to be exhibited in Venice in the name of Macau. These 12 pieces of locally created work will vividly reflect the artists' response to the rapidly changing community of Macau.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (No admission after 6:30 p.m., closed on Mondays)
Admission: MOP$5 (Free on Sundays)
Venue: 2nd floor Gallery of Special Exhibitions, Macau Museum of Art, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Organizer: Macau Museum of Art of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau     
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8791 9814
http://www.artmuseum.gov.mo

4 Mar to 17 Jul - Shiwan Ceramics Exhibition

Opening Hours: 10:00am - 7:00pm (no admittance after 6:30pm, closed on Mondays)
Admission: MOP$5 (Free on Sundays)
Venue: 4th floor of Gallery of Chinese Ceramics, Macau Museum of Art, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Organizer: Macau Museum of Art of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau     
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8791 9814
http://ww.artmuseum.gov.mo

6 Mar to 31 Dec - Reminiscence: Photographs of Old Macau

The exhibition presents 50 photographs of old Macau taken by José Neves Catela, a Portuguese photographer from the middle of the last century, as well as senior local photographer Lei Iok Tin, reflecting the life of Macau people in the 1920s to 1960s.

These images will evoke the cascading memories of seniors who have passed through that era, enabling them to relive their youth, while the younger generation will have a unique opportunity to understand the critical changes that have occurred in this city. 

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (No admission after 6:30 p.m., closed on Mondays)
Admission: MOP$5 (Free on Sundays)
Venue: 3rd floorGallery, Macau Museum of Art, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Organizer: Macau Museum of Art of the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau     
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8791 9814
http://www.artmuseum.gov.mo

Permanent Exhibitions

Handover Gifts Exhibition

This exhibition displays handover gifts presented by the provinces, autonomous regions, municipalities and special administrative regions of China to the Macau Special Administrative Region, and reflect strong regional features and unique artistry.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
(No admission after 6:30 p.m.,closed on Mondays)
Admission free
Venue: Handover Gifts Exhibition Gallery,
Handover Gifts Museum of Macau, Av. Xian Xing Hai, s/n, NAPE
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8504 1800
http://handovermuseum.iacm.gov.mo

Bryde's Whalebone Exhibition

A twelve meters male Bryde's Whale is now on display in a unique exhibition in Seac Pai Van Park in Coloane. After it was found stranded on the shoreline five years ago. Its body was taken to Guangzhou's Sun Yat-sen University to preserve it in the form of a skeletal specimen and thanks to painstaking efforts has been returned for the public.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays)
Admission free
Venue: Exhibition Room, Seac Pai Van Park, Coloane
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2859 5481
http://www.museumaritimo.gov.mo

Encounter with the History - Exhibition of Photographic in Commemoration of the Basic Law of the Macau SAR

The photographs in this exhibition range from the first photo taken of Macau by Jules Itier in 1844 to the present day. The exhibition examines the territory through five distinct phases of its history - Macau post-Opium War, Macau during the Republican Era, Macau after the formation of the New China, Macau during its Transitional Period and Macau following her return to China.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays) 
Admission free 
Venue: Macau Forum Exhibition Hall, Av. de Marciano Baptista 
Organizers: Association of Promotion of the Macau Basic Law, Legal Affairs Bureau, Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau, Education and Youth Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 8988 4100, 2882 7882
http://www.iacm.gov.mo/museum

Museum of Taipa and Coloane History Exhibition

Situated in a green Portuguese-style building of great historic interest in the old Camara Municipal das Ilhas, the museum displays historic village artifacts and religious items. Historians will find a treasure trove in this 2-storey building with its 8 rooms.

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays) 
Admission: MOP$5 (Free on Tuesdays) 
Address: Museum of Taipa and coloane History - Rua Correia da Silva, Taipa 
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2882 5631
http://www.iacm.gov.mo/museum

In Love with the Macanese - A Photograph Exhibition

The history of the Macanese dates back to the 16th Century. At the time, the Portuguese had a strong overseas presence and frequently explored new sea routes to the East. Portuguese men married and had children with the locals, and eventually settled in Macau. Their offspring became the early Macanese of Macau.

Macanese living habits, education, customs and religious beliefs are all meticulously documented in this photographic exhibition, illustrating the past while raising the understanding of Macanese culture through captions. The exhibition fittingly takes place in the House of the Islands, a typical historic Portuguese residence in a leafy district of Taipa. 

Opening Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays, open on public holidays)    
Admission: MOP$5 (Free on Tuesdays)
Venue: House of the Islands, the Taipa Houses-Museum, Av. da Praia, Taipa
Organizer: Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2882 7103 
http://www.iacm.gov.mo/museum

The 10th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Macau SAR Series

Macau Redraws the Art Map

In recent years, it has been easy to spot graffiti art on the wooden fences surrounding construction areas, which are mostly produced by local artists. The artists from Meow Space, for example, have acutely pinpointed the lively characters of cats, while engineering a larger space for art groups.

Culture, in its many-faceted forms, has experienced a rapid rise during the past decade. Tap Seac Square has hosted numerous activities since opening in 2007, enabling local artists to sell their homemade art. The nearby Tap Seac Gallery was a noble cultural venue for over 80 years, and now hosts visual arts exhibitions and promotes various cultural events.

Passing along the Square, you can find two other new cultural spaces in historic Western buildings - Albergue and 10 Fantasia - which are located next to each other and attract many local cultural workers to participate in various creative projects.  

Walking for another ten minutes will bring you to Senado Square, and here in one of the old buildings you can find 'Pin-to Book Shop' (Pin-to Livros) which sells different kinds of books and musical instruments. Not far away is the famous historic landmark of the Ruins of St Paul's - and St. Paul's Corner, where gallery, art studio, restaurant, and a wide range of art and multicultural social activities are acted out in a historic three-storey building.

Walking along the slope right behind the Ruins of St. Paul's, you will find 'Poor Space', which sells handicrafts and hosts art exhibitions for local artists. Down the road you will see another cultural 'oasis' - the Ox Warehouse.

Leaving the old district, we move to Macau Museum of Art, another magnet for local artistic exhibition. Last but not least, Creative Macau is an airy place for Macanese and foreign artists residing in Macau to exhibit their works. Linking all the cultural spaces forms a new art map. When you visit Macau, you may follow the footsteps for a creative and cultural itinerary that will surely take you on a never-ending journey.

Free Guided Tour of Macau Churches

Several of the beautiful, distinctive churches of the territory are located within the boundaries of the Historic Centre of Macau and are convenient to visit. If you want to know more about the many rituals and stories behind the church façades, look out for the free guided tour service provided every Saturday and Sunday in St. Augustine's Church, St. Lawrence's Church and St. Joseph's Seminary and Church.

Time:
St. Lawrence's Church, St. Joseph's Seminary and Church - 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Every Saturday & Sunday)
St. Augustine's Church - 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Every Saturday) / 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (Every Sunday)
Admission free (appointments not required)
Venue: St. Augustine's Church, St. Lawrence's Church and St. Joseph's Seminary and Church
Organizer: Pilgrimage Service of Catholic Lay Association of Macau
Telephone enquiries: (853) 2892 1438
Language: Cantonese, Mandarin & English

Highlight Preview

The 20th Macau Arts Festival will be held from May 2 to 30. Some programmes will be hosted by venues in the Historic Centre of Macau.

The annual traditional Catholic ritual Procession of Our Lady of Fátima will be held on May 13, and commemorates the miracle of Fátima in Portugal in 1917.

International Museum Day will be held on May 18 and features a series of events that promise to make your trip to Macau unforgettable.

To celebrate Buddha's Birthday, Feast of the Drunken Dragon, and the Tam Kong Festival on May 2 this year, the famous Drunken Dragon Dance and traditional parade are musts for your diary!

Cultural Affairs Bureau, Macau Cultural Centre programs' 24-Hour Ticketing Hotline:
Macau (853) 2855 5555, Hong Kong (852) 2380 5083, Mainland China (86) 139 269 11111  
Website: http://www.macauticket.com

Photos:
Macau Government Tourist Office, Cultural Affairs Bureau, Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau, Macau Myanmar Overseas Chinese Association, Associação de Opera Chinesa dos Moradores de Marítima Terrestre da Barra de Macau, The Venetian Macau-Resort-Hotel, Macau Youth Symphony Orchestra, Macau Dancing Association, Casa de Portugal em Macau, Macau Trade and Investment Promotion Institute, Pilgrimage Service, Meow Space, Creative Industries Promotion Association of St. Lazarus Church District, Old Ladies' House Art Space, Centre for Creative Industries, Albergue SCM