Mr Charles Lee, the Festival's Chairman, said, "Festival Plus is a significant supplementary programme and gives context and new perspectives to the main Festival programmes. It is very much part of our ongoing commitment to make Festival performances, works, artists and ideas more accessible to all, and particularly to young audiences." He added, "In terms of this new partnership, I am particularly pleased that the Cheung Kong Group is joining the growing band of our Corporate supporters."

Mr Victor Li, Managing Director and Deputy Chairman of Cheung Kong (Holdings) Ltd, said "There is a close correlation between arts and culture and economic development. Quality arts and cultural programmes not only serve the cultural needs of residents, but also facilitate in promoting tourism. They also elevate a city's international standing, act as a draw for talents and investors from all over the world, contributing to economic development."

Mr Douglas Gautier, Executive Director of the Festival, said "Many of the artists from the main Festival will participate in master classes and meet-the-artist sessions. In addition, we will present talks and workshops from experts who will offer valuable insights and background to Festival programmes – which we trust will make the whole Festival going experience more enjoyable and rewarding."

Festival Plus, with its wide array of activities, has generated enormous attention and support from the public every year. The 2004 Festival Plus includes 14 talks, 2 lecture-demonstrations, 5 master classes, 4 workshops, 14 meet-the-artist sessions, 2 exhibitions and 4 special programmes. These Festival Plus programmes are a joint collaboration with 10 other major arts, media and cultural organizations involved with the Arts Festival in devising and presenting these programmes.

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(From left) Mr George Magnus, Deputy Chairman and Mr Victor Li, Managing Director & Deputy Chairman of Cheung Kong (Holdings) Ltd; and Mr Charles Lee, GBS, JP, and
Mr Douglas Gautier, Executive Director of HK Arts Festival Society Ltd pictured at the "Festival Plus is brought to you by the Cheung Kong Group" press conference.