Academy for Performing Arts Principal Shares Journey from Dancer to Academic Leader
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 4 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Chan Chung-ying, Principal of the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (APA), offers a rare glimpse into her journey from professional dancer to academic leader. Her bright, minimalist office features a striking wall installation made from admission passes collected during her tenure at the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority from 2014 to 2018, documenting her travels to art festivals worldwide. The recipient of the Hong Kong Dance Awards Outstanding Achievement Award describes dance as more challenging than managing an educational institution.
Key Points
- Chan Chung-ying began studying ballet at age 13 and later won the Hong Kong Dance Awards Outstanding Achievement Award
- Her office wall displays admission passes from her role as Head of Performing Arts (Dance) at West Kowloon Cultural District Authority between 2014-2018
- She led 60 Hong Kong artists and dancers to Düsseldorf, Germany for the International Dance Expo, the world's largest such event
- When asked about alternative careers, Chan expressed interest in becoming an interior designer, saying she loves beautiful things
- Her office overlooks a serene garden through floor-to-ceiling windows, reflecting her appreciation for aesthetics
Why It Matters
Chan's journey exemplifies how performing arts professionals can transition into educational leadership, bringing international experience and artistic vision to shape the next generation of Hong Kong's cultural talent. Her perspective on dance being harder than academy management highlights the unique pressures facing both performers and educators in the arts sector.
Chan's journey exemplifies how performing arts professionals can transition into educational leadership, bringing international experience and artistic vision to shape the next generation of Hong Kong's cultural talent. Her perspective on dance being harder than academy management highlights the unique pressures facing both performers and educators in the arts sector.