Hong Kong acting icon Chung King Fai, known affectionately as “King Sir,” is being honored with a special exhibition at the West Kowloon Cultural District’s Xiqu Centre following his death on June 3 at age 89.
The tribute, titled “Drama Master Chung King Fai Memorial Exhibition,” has attracted prominent figures from the entertainment industry, including Cantopop diva and actress Sammi Cheng, who visited the gallery on June 11. Cheng shared photos and reflections on her Instagram Stories, revealing that she toured the exhibition under the guidance of Tse Kwan-ho, one of King Sir’s most celebrated protégés.
In her social media post, Cheng wrote: “In memory of King Sir, with special thanks to Kwan-ho for the guided tour.” She added that Tse told her King Sir had embraced Christianity in his youth. “The exhibition also distributes bookmarks printed with Bible verses,” Cheng noted. “Rest in peace, King Sir. Thank you.”
Photographs posted by Cheng show Tse pointing to precious photographs on the exhibition walls while patiently explaining their significance. In another image, the pair stand in conversation—Tse gesturing warmly, Cheng listening intently, her phone raised to document the displays. The scenes underscore the deep respect Cheng holds for a man who shaped generations of Hong Kong performers.
A Legacy That Spanned Stage and Screen
Chung King Fai, who died at his home in Hong Kong, was widely regarded as a titan of Cantonese theater and television. Over a career that stretched more than six decades, he directed, acted, and mentored countless artists, earning the title “King Sir” from peers and audiences alike. He founded the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts’ School of Drama and served as its dean, nurturing talents including Tse Kwan-ho, who later won a Golden Horse Award for Best Actor.
King Sir’s influence extended beyond the stage. He introduced Western plays to Hong Kong audiences, directed classic Chinese operas, and starred in television dramas that became household staples. His work earned him the Medal of Honor from the Hong Kong government and lifelong admiration from the city’s cultural community.
Exhibition Offers Rare Glimpse Into King Sir’s Life
Curated by the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, the memorial exhibition features a rich collection of photographs, costumes, scripts, and personal artifacts spanning King Sir’s career. Visitors can trace his journey from a young theater enthusiast to a revered educator and performer. The inclusion of Bible verse bookmarks reflects the spiritual dimension of his life—a detail that touched Cheng and many others.
The exhibition also highlights King Sir’s pivotal role in bridging traditional Chinese opera with modern drama, a fusion that helped define Hong Kong’s unique cultural identity.
Broader Impact: A City Mourns a Master
The passing of Chung King Fai marks the end of an era for Hong Kong’s performing arts. His death has prompted tributes from actors, directors, and government officials, all acknowledging his role as a mentor and pioneer. The exhibition offers a space for the public to pay respects and reflect on his contributions.
For those unable to visit in person, the West Kowloon Cultural District has announced plans to release an online gallery and a digital archive of King Sir’s work later this year. These resources aim to preserve his legacy for future generations of drama enthusiasts and scholars.
The exhibition runs through late June at the Xiqu Centre, with free admission. Visitors are encouraged to check the venue’s website for updated hours and guided tour schedules.
