AAPPAC looks to the next act
The AAPPAC Annual Conference takes place in Hong Kong from 6 to 9 October 2026. Themed “The Next Act: Shaping the Future”, the four-day conference comprises three keynotes, four panel discussions, breakout sessions and a series of networking activities.
The keynote line-up includes musical director and composer Leon Ko, artist and choreographer Amrita Hepi, and composer, conductor and conceptual artist Huang Ruo.
Panel discussions will address funding and governance, technological change, new approaches to programming and the future of performing arts centres.
Panellists and moderators include:
- Brenna Hobson (Director, Programming, Sydney Opera House)
- Low Kee Hong (Creative Director, Factory International)
- Yvonne Tham (Chief Executive Officer, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay)
- Septime Webre (Artistic Director, Hong Kong Ballet)
- Betty Fung (Chief Executive Officer, WKCDA)
- Paul Tam (Executive Director, Performing Arts, WKCDA)
Delegates can also enjoy a curated selection of local showcases presented by WestK Performing Arts, highlighting Hong Kong’s vibrant creative energy. The line-up features No Dragon No Lion by TS Crew, a dynamic show that reimagines traditional lion dance and kung fu circus by blending them with contemporary theatrical elements. Also featured is Book of Mountains and Seas – The Fates of Mountains and Rivers • Finale by Théâtre de la Feuille, a physical theatre production that seamlessly combines Eastern and Western theatrical aesthetics. The programme also includes PHONATE, a contemporary dance work by choreographer Wayson Poon.
Beyond the performances, the AAPPAC Connecting Series will give delegates opportunities to explore partnerships and foster industry collaboration. Activities include Coffee Social, featuring themed, small-table discussions designed for focused, informal dialogue; AAPPAC Mixer, offering fast-paced, structured exchanges to spark connections across disciplines, regions and institutions; and Connecting Lunch, where presenters, venues and performing arts centres can come together to share ideas and explore future partnerships.
As a highlight of their visit, delegates will also have an exclusive preview of the forthcoming WestK Performing Arts Centre before its official opening in 2027.
For more information and to register,
visit westk.hk/en/aappac2026