The Academy is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Chung King-fai (鍾景輝博士), fondly known as King Sir, founding Dean of the School of Drama and Honorary Doctor of the Academy, on 3 June 2026.
A towering figure in Hong Kong’s arts and cultural sector, King Sir excelled as a stage actor and director, education, television producer, performer, and programme host. His lifelong dedication to the performing arts has left an enduring legacy.
Committed to nurturing talent, King Sir mentored generations of performers and practitioners across Hong Kong ‘s tertiary institutions. Following his tenure at the then Hong Kong Baptist College, he joined the Academy in 1983 as the founding Dean of the School of Drama, a role he held for 18 years. After his retirement, he continued to support the School as an advisor, offering invaluable guidance on the development of drama education. The Academy remains profoundly grateful for his visionary leadership and lasting contributions.
King Sir was widely acclaimed for his contributions to Hong Kong’s theatre scene. He pioneered Cantonese adaptations of works from the Theatre of the Absurd and Broadway musicals, significantly enriching the local repertoire. His distinguished work as both director and actor earned him multiple Best Actor and Best Director honours in the Hong Kong Drama Awards. As founder and chairman of the Hong Kong Federation of Drama Societies, and as an advisor to various arts groups and Government bodies, he played an important role in fostering the growth of theatre and the wider performing arts sector.
Beyond the stage, King Sir narrated the well-known television documentary Chinese Stories from Afar and appeared in numerous television programmes and films, demonstrating his versatility and devotion to the arts.
King Sir received numerous prestigious honorus for his remarkable achievements. These included the Silver Bauhinia Star conferred by the HKSAR Government in 2013, the Life Achievement Award from the Hong Kong Arts Development Council in 2012, and the World Outstanding Chinese Award in 2007.
King Sir was held in the highest regard and deep affection by colleagues, students, fellow artists and audiences alike. His passing is a great loss to the Academy and to Hong Kong’s performing arts and cultural community, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
In memory of King Sir, and in keeping with his lifelong dedication to theatre education, contributions to the Chung King Fai Memorial Scholarship will support the next generation of performing arts talent and carry forward the values he instilled in so many.
For donation methods and details, please scan the QR code or click here.
