Hong Kong Fringe Club pledges to fight to keep its home in landmark Old Dairy Farm Depot as lease put up for tender by government
- Top arts and performance venue says it will bid to retain distinctive home after government puts space up for tender
- Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau said lease would go to non-profit committed to support of arts and culture in city
One of Hong Kong’s premier arts clubs has vowed to do its best to keep its home in the distinctive red-and-white banded Old Dairy Farm Depot in Central after authorities asked for proposals to take over management of the historic building.
The Fringe Club, which has suffered legal and financial problems in recent times, on Monday promised to bring more acts from mainland China and overseas as part of its bid to retain the lease, which will include a clause to ensure operators abide by the national security law.
“The Fringe Club board and management are committed to doing everything we can to make our proposal as competitive as possible in the coming open tender process,” a spokesman said.
“As part of our proposal, we envision the revival of the renowned citywide Fringe Festival, which has been a hallmark of the club’s history.
“The festival will serve as a platform to showcase both local and international acts.”
He was speaking after the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau invited non-profit-making organisations to submit proposals for the operation and development of the building in Lower Albert Road from next year.
