(HONG KONG - June 7, 2007) In celebration of Hong Kong SAR's tenth anniversary, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong today assembled a who's who of China's history-makers for the launch of an exciting new exhibition: Chinese Leaders & Heroes.
Specially created to mark Hong Kong's anniversary, the permanent exhibition features six world-renowned Chinese figures, each a leader in their field, chosen for their great impact on China's history.
The exhibition includes revolutionary, Dr Sun Yat-Sen; Marxist military and political leader, Mao Zedong; prominent leader of Communist Party of China, Zhou Enlai; Pioneer of Chinese economic reform, Deng Xiaoping; Premier of the State Council of the PRC, Wen Jiabao; and China's first astronaut to enter space, Yang Liwei.
Recognising the importance of these Chinese dignitaries, Nick Varney, the Chief Executive Officer of Merlin Entertainments Group, the world's second largest visitor attraction operator, and owner of Madame Tussauds, together with Lambert Chan, General Manager, Destination Marketing of Hong Kong Tourism Board unveiled the exhibition in a ceremony befitting of the line up.
"These figures have created history in China, and the world, and are again creating history today, this time for Madame Tussauds Hong Kong," said Mr Varney.
"Never before, in any of Madame Tussauds' attractions, have such powerful influencers been displayed in one exhibition.
"We can think of no better way to celebrate Hong Kong's 10th anniversary, than by immortalizing these history-makers in an on-going exhibition, just in time for Hong Kong to mark its own history-making event."
General Manager of Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, Edward Fuller, said the team of highly-skilled wax sculptors had been working around-the-clock to complete the figures in time for the opening, with the large number of figures on display posing a unique challenge as the majority were portrayed from historical data and extensive research.
"The team had to go in to over-drive to complete the figures, but I think everyone will agree they have once again created incredibly life-like figures for each and every one of them," said Mr Fuller.
"We are very proud of the wax figures, and the significance of the exhibition itself, and have no doubt it will further ensure Madame Tussauds Hong Kong remains a must-see attraction for local residents and international visitors alike."
The six Leading Chinese Figures were created in wax at the Madame Tussauds London studio, taking over six months each to complete, from initial concept to display.
Sculptors re-created the figures using a library of photographic images and historical data to ensure the accuracy of their measurements, skin tone, and hair and eye colour.
As part of its special anniversary promotion, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is offering all ten year-old children free entry to the attraction from today onwards until the end of July 2007.
About Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is a unique celebrity-inspired attraction that connects guests with famous people, famous events and famous times. Featuring five themed areas, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong provides guests with the opportunity to meet their idols and do the things that famous people do!
As part of the exciting Peak Tower Renovation, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong has re-opened in May 2006 after a HK$20 million expansion project, building a brand new entrance area on Level P1 of the Peak Tower and adding a further 7000 sq. ft of attraction space.
The attraction features over 100 local and international celebrity wax figures with exciting audiovisual effects and interactive experiences to create truly magical moments for all guests.
