20
May
Paul Taylor – 100% in English
Paul Taylor – 100% in English
Paul makes fun of the French and they love it. Or they tell him to go back to England! After 3 sell-out bilingual world tours, Paul shares his story of being a British expat in France, this time 100% in English. Hold onto your berets!
Personal Bio
Paul Taylor is a British comedian who has been living in France since 2009. His trademark is poking fun at the French and the French lifestyle, as well as at himself, by sharing his offbeat expat experiences, including linguistic misunderstandings and cultural mix-ups.
In 2016, he released his first bilingual show, "#FRANGLAIS," to phenomenal success. He followed it up with his second and third shows, "So British (ou presque)" and "Bisoubye". With this trilogy of bilingual shows, Paul has captivated tens of thousands of spectators with sold-out performances in the most prestigious of venues in France and around the world.
Alongside his stage performances, Paul has also ventured into creating video content. Spotted early in his career by the French TV channel Canal+, he developed and produced the hit TV show “WTF France," which catapulted him into the limelight. Paul’s online videos now have hundreds of millions of views, and he has over 1.5 million followers on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
Paul makes fun of the French and they love it. Or they tell him to go back to England! After 3 sell-out bilingual world tours, Paul shares his story of being a British expat in France, this time 100% in English. Hold onto your berets!
Personal Bio
Paul Taylor is a British comedian who has been living in France since 2009. His trademark is poking fun at the French and the French lifestyle, as well as at himself, by sharing his offbeat expat experiences, including linguistic misunderstandings and cultural mix-ups.
In 2016, he released his first bilingual show, "#FRANGLAIS," to phenomenal success. He followed it up with his second and third shows, "So British (ou presque)" and "Bisoubye". With this trilogy of bilingual shows, Paul has captivated tens of thousands of spectators with sold-out performances in the most prestigious of venues in France and around the world.
Alongside his stage performances, Paul has also ventured into creating video content. Spotted early in his career by the French TV channel Canal+, he developed and produced the hit TV show “WTF France," which catapulted him into the limelight. Paul’s online videos now have hundreds of millions of views, and he has over 1.5 million followers on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
Date:20 May (Tue)
Venue:HK Jockey Club Amphitheatre
16
May
01
Jun
Paradise of the Suck
Please refer to Chinese
Date:16 May (Fri) - 01 Jun (Sun)
Venue:Academy Lyric Theatre
07
May
10
May
Academy Musical: What the Buddha Said
Inspired by Original Chinese Novel Journey to the West & Anthony Chan’s play of the same name
Date:07 May (Wed) - 10 May (Sat)
Venue:Academy Lyric Theatre
09
Apr
13
Apr
"You've Got A Friend" Concert
Given the importance of mental health, the Hong Kong Mental Wellness Association will present a charity event — the "You've Got A Friend" concert. This event will take place from 9 April 2025 to 13 April 2025. It will feature Brian Chow, a media veteran, as the director and host of the talk show, and Susan Wong, a HiFi diva. They will perform together through singing and chatting to convey positive messages about emotional and mental well -being.
With soothing songs, real-life cases sharing, and interaction between performers and the audience, the audience will immerse themselves in a wonderful musical and spiritual journey. This will help people explore the real source and meaning of happiness, and further inspire them to overcome the hard times of life.
With soothing songs, real-life cases sharing, and interaction between performers and the audience, the audience will immerse themselves in a wonderful musical and spiritual journey. This will help people explore the real source and meaning of happiness, and further inspire them to overcome the hard times of life.
Date:09 Apr (Wed) - 13 Apr (Sun)
Venue:Rita Tong Liu Drama Theatre
04
Apr
06
Apr
Frida
The magical life and journey of an iconic artist
One of the most important painters in the 20th century, the Mexican-born Frida Kahlo is a blazing symbol of artistic subjectivity, female liberation and the magical world of surrealism. Colombian-Belgian choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa (HKB’s Coco Chanel) produces a visually stunning Frida that tells the iconic artist’s multifaceted life story of triumph and tragedy with rich imagery from her bold paintings and deeply personal self portraits.
Seamlessly fusing the classical and the contemporary, this vivid work majestically showcases Ochoa’s inventive partnering as dancers weave a tale of tempestuous affairs, heart-wrenching struggle and complex, uncompromising art. Set against Peter Salem’s enchanting original score with vibrant touches of mariachi, flamenco and jazz music, the compelling characters in Frida’s magical world, including her husband and famed muralist Diego Rivera, are exuberantly brought to life.
Frida pays a hauntingly beautiful tribute to a visionary trailblazer who painted her version of the world against staggering odds and left an unforgettable social and artistic legacy.
One of the most important painters in the 20th century, the Mexican-born Frida Kahlo is a blazing symbol of artistic subjectivity, female liberation and the magical world of surrealism. Colombian-Belgian choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa (HKB’s Coco Chanel) produces a visually stunning Frida that tells the iconic artist’s multifaceted life story of triumph and tragedy with rich imagery from her bold paintings and deeply personal self portraits.
Seamlessly fusing the classical and the contemporary, this vivid work majestically showcases Ochoa’s inventive partnering as dancers weave a tale of tempestuous affairs, heart-wrenching struggle and complex, uncompromising art. Set against Peter Salem’s enchanting original score with vibrant touches of mariachi, flamenco and jazz music, the compelling characters in Frida’s magical world, including her husband and famed muralist Diego Rivera, are exuberantly brought to life.
Frida pays a hauntingly beautiful tribute to a visionary trailblazer who painted her version of the world against staggering odds and left an unforgettable social and artistic legacy.
Date:04 Apr (Fri) - 06 Apr (Sun)
Venue:Academy Lyric Theatre
30
Mar
Pi-hsien Chen Piano Recital
Pi-hsien Chen’s dedication to new piano music evolved from personal collaborations with some of the most important composers of the 20th century, including John Cage, Pierre Boulez and György Kurtág. For her return to Hong Kong, she has selected a programme true to her motto: “Be happy with strange things.” Bach’s Partita No 4 is complemented by the Third Piano Sonata by Boulez, which explores aleatoric music, while Alban Berg’s Op 1 relies heavily on Schoenberg’s idea of “developing variation”.
Chen’s piano recital provides a unique opportunity to experience an eclectic mosaic of pieces that are rarely performed in concert. Her remarkable and insightful interpretations will showcase her undisputed mastery of a vast piano repertoire.
Approx. 2 hrs incl. one interval
Further programme information: https://visit.hkaf.org/qmdm6c
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Chen’s piano recital provides a unique opportunity to experience an eclectic mosaic of pieces that are rarely performed in concert. Her remarkable and insightful interpretations will showcase her undisputed mastery of a vast piano repertoire.
Approx. 2 hrs incl. one interval
Further programme information: https://visit.hkaf.org/qmdm6c
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Date:30 Mar (Sun)
Venue:Academy Concert Hall
26
Mar
29
Mar
Emma Rice─Wuthering Heights
Wuthering Heights, Emily Brontë’s epic story of love, revenge and redemption, is re-imagined in an audaciously inventive new stage adaptation by the National Theatre, Wise Children, Bristol Old Vic and York Theatre Royal, helmed by the multi-award-winning British theatre director Emma Rice.
Led by her singular vision and deep personal connection with the source material, Rice re-examines this haunting tale of revenge through a contemporary lens and transforms it into an exhilarating theatrical experience. Featuring a cast of 11 and a magical blend of live music, comedy, puppetry, dance and projections, this ambitious retelling serves as cautionary tale that warns how cruelty towards others can affect the world for decades to come.
Approx. 2 hrs 50 mins incl. one interval
Performed in English with Chinese surtitles
This production contains strong language and depictions of violence
Recommended for ages 12 and above
Further programme information: https://visit.hkaf.org/f5m8jl
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Led by her singular vision and deep personal connection with the source material, Rice re-examines this haunting tale of revenge through a contemporary lens and transforms it into an exhilarating theatrical experience. Featuring a cast of 11 and a magical blend of live music, comedy, puppetry, dance and projections, this ambitious retelling serves as cautionary tale that warns how cruelty towards others can affect the world for decades to come.
Approx. 2 hrs 50 mins incl. one interval
Performed in English with Chinese surtitles
This production contains strong language and depictions of violence
Recommended for ages 12 and above
Further programme information: https://visit.hkaf.org/f5m8jl
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Date:26 Mar (Wed) - 29 Mar (Sat)
Venue:Academy Lyric Theatre
25
Mar
29
Mar
Academy Opera: Don Giovanni
Date:25 Mar (Tue) - 29 Mar (Sat)
Venue:Rita Tong Liu Drama Theatre
21
Mar
Annette Chien Embracing Benefit Concert
Event Description
Pleased refer to Chinese
Pleased refer to Chinese
Date:21 Mar (Fri)
Venue:HK Jockey Club Amphitheatre
21
Mar
23
Mar
Crime and Punishment
Dostoevsky’s psychological thriller about a young man’s journey towards redemption
Young, impoverished and possessed by self-righteousness, a former student commits murder in the name of alleviating human misery, but ends up with a tormented conscience. He later meets a prostitute with a pure soul, who shines a beacon of light on his path. Will he spiral deeper into anguish, or will he finally resurrect himself in a moment of truth?
A masterpiece by Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment traces the protagonist’s psychological journey and moral dilemmas after he commits the ultimate crime. Probing the relationships between the individual and society, morality and power, and religion and freedom, the drama revolves around the protagonist’s battle with himself and those around him, illuminating the conflicts between radicalism and morality, and free will and the will of God.
Adapted by Phillip Breen, an Associate Artist of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and directed by renowned Hong Kong director Desmond Tang together with Breen, the 2025 Hong Kong version embodies a contemporary touch and features a powerhouse local cast.
Led by Ben Yuen, named Best Supporting Actor at the Golden Horse Film Awards, who plays the relentless inspector in pursuit of righteousness, the 15-strong ensemble of stage and film/TV actors will bring to life this epic drama full of poignant characters and dark humour. Get ready to experience a thrilling theatrical reflection on good and evil that will set your heart ablaze.
Commissioned and produced by the Hong Kong Arts Festival
Young, impoverished and possessed by self-righteousness, a former student commits murder in the name of alleviating human misery, but ends up with a tormented conscience. He later meets a prostitute with a pure soul, who shines a beacon of light on his path. Will he spiral deeper into anguish, or will he finally resurrect himself in a moment of truth?
A masterpiece by Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment traces the protagonist’s psychological journey and moral dilemmas after he commits the ultimate crime. Probing the relationships between the individual and society, morality and power, and religion and freedom, the drama revolves around the protagonist’s battle with himself and those around him, illuminating the conflicts between radicalism and morality, and free will and the will of God.
Adapted by Phillip Breen, an Associate Artist of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and directed by renowned Hong Kong director Desmond Tang together with Breen, the 2025 Hong Kong version embodies a contemporary touch and features a powerhouse local cast.
Led by Ben Yuen, named Best Supporting Actor at the Golden Horse Film Awards, who plays the relentless inspector in pursuit of righteousness, the 15-strong ensemble of stage and film/TV actors will bring to life this epic drama full of poignant characters and dark humour. Get ready to experience a thrilling theatrical reflection on good and evil that will set your heart ablaze.
Commissioned and produced by the Hong Kong Arts Festival
Performed in Cantonese with Chinese and English surtitles
This production contains strong language, smoking scenes and depictions of violence
Recommended for ages 16 and above
23 Mar 2:30pm performance is an accessible performance with audio description in Cantonese. Please call 2777 1771 to reserve the audio description device in advance
Approx. 3 hrs including one interval
Further programme information: https://visit.hkaf.org/qgjo27
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Date:21 Mar (Fri) - 23 Mar (Sun)
Venue:Academy Lyric Theatre
30
May
(Thu)
31
May
(Fri)
Beautiful Harmony
Experience the captivating concert Beautiful Harmony featuring internationally awarded pianist Niu Niu and rising star flautist Cocomi. Their enchanting musicianship transcends borders as they weave melodies together, creating tranquil harmonies with pleasing notes. Niu Niu's masterful interpretations of the piano and Cocomi's sensational touch on the flute enlighten the audience. In a delightful addition, the concert will feature a mesmerising poetry reading, where the spoken word intertwines with enchanting music, evoking emotions and painting vivid imagery. Join them on this extraordinary musical journey, where the magic of Beautiful Harmony transports you to a world of captivating melodies and the sublime beauty of poetry.
This concert is proudly sponsored by First Initiative Foundation (FIF) and fully supported by Star Partner, American Express. For over 14 years, FIF has been supporting and promoting the arts, music, and education in Hong Kong.
Piano: Niu Niu
Flute: Cocomi
Quartet from the French International School
Programme
DEBUSSY Beau soir *
Rêverie *
Andantino con moto, no. 1 from
Deux arabesques *
FAURÉ Berceuse, op. 16
Sicilienne, op. 78 *+
Fantaisie op. 79
RACHMANINOV
Vocalise, no. 14 from 14 Romances, op. 34 ^
LØVLAND Song from a Secret Garden #
LOUIGUY/PIAF La vie en rose #
POULENC Mélancolie *
Le disparu *
Improvisation no. 15 in C minor,
'L'hommage à Edith Piaf' *
NIU NIU L'eau
CHEN G. & HE Z. Excerpt from Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto #+
* Arrangement: Hideaki Hagimori
# Arrangement: Niu Niu
^ Arrangement: Takatsugu Muramatsu
+ Performed with students from The French International School
This concert is proudly sponsored by First Initiative Foundation (FIF) and fully supported by Star Partner, American Express. For over 14 years, FIF has been supporting and promoting the arts, music, and education in Hong Kong.
Piano: Niu Niu
Flute: Cocomi
Quartet from the French International School
Programme
DEBUSSY Beau soir *
Rêverie *
Andantino con moto, no. 1 from
Deux arabesques *
FAURÉ Berceuse, op. 16
Sicilienne, op. 78 *+
Fantaisie op. 79
RACHMANINOV
Vocalise, no. 14 from 14 Romances, op. 34 ^
LØVLAND Song from a Secret Garden #
LOUIGUY/PIAF La vie en rose #
POULENC Mélancolie *
Le disparu *
Improvisation no. 15 in C minor,
'L'hommage à Edith Piaf' *
NIU NIU L'eau
CHEN G. & HE Z. Excerpt from Butterfly Lovers Violin Concerto #+
* Arrangement: Hideaki Hagimori
# Arrangement: Niu Niu
^ Arrangement: Takatsugu Muramatsu
+ Performed with students from The French International School
Date: 30 May (Thu) - 31 May (Fri)
Venue: HK Jockey Club Amphitheatre
13
May
(Mon)
18
May
(Sat)
Academy Musical: Bernarda Alba
This is a musical adaptation of the famous Spanish poet Lorca’s work of the same title. The powerful matriarch, Bernarda Alba, following her second husband's funeral, decrees to her five daughters that the household will enter a period of mourning during which they will shut the doors on the world outside of the village. Yet, the house can trap “people” but not with their hearts. As everyone tries their best to escape, Angustias, the eldest daughter, seems to be the only one to escape this fate as she is already betrothed to Pepe el Romano, the most attractive young bachelor of the village. In the strict confines of the house, jealousy and suppressed sexuality rise to the surface among the daughters.
Words and Music: Michael John LaChiusa
Director: Shaw Mei-kwan
Musical Director: Pong Law
Spoken Text Translation, Singing & Voice Coach: Li Wing-hong
Choreographer: Lim Wei-wei
Cantonese Lyrics: Chung Chi-wing
Set Designer: Jobelle Wang
Costume Designer: Vanessa Suen Wing-kwan
Lighting Designer: Cheng Lai-chiu
Sound Designer & Assistant to Musical Director: Tam Pak-huen
Production Manager: Kyle Yen Wing-yin
Cast: Chan Ka-yan, Renee Ching, Tsang Sin, Yip Shu-yan, Yu Tsz-wing, Simi Cheng, Chin Wing-kar, Li Mei-yan, Tsang Wing-yam, Tsoi Suet-yi, Wong Sze-wing, Yiu Lok-wai
BERNARDA ALBA
Words and Music by MICHAEL JOHN LaCHIUSA
Based on the play "The House of Bernarda Alba" by Federico García Lorca
BERNARDA ALBA is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals. www.concordtheatricals.com
BERNARDA ALBA was originally produced by Lincoln Center Theater, New York City, 2006
Words and Music: Michael John LaChiusa
Director: Shaw Mei-kwan
Musical Director: Pong Law
Spoken Text Translation, Singing & Voice Coach: Li Wing-hong
Choreographer: Lim Wei-wei
Cantonese Lyrics: Chung Chi-wing
Set Designer: Jobelle Wang
Costume Designer: Vanessa Suen Wing-kwan
Lighting Designer: Cheng Lai-chiu
Sound Designer & Assistant to Musical Director: Tam Pak-huen
Production Manager: Kyle Yen Wing-yin
Cast: Chan Ka-yan, Renee Ching, Tsang Sin, Yip Shu-yan, Yu Tsz-wing, Simi Cheng, Chin Wing-kar, Li Mei-yan, Tsang Wing-yam, Tsoi Suet-yi, Wong Sze-wing, Yiu Lok-wai
BERNARDA ALBA
Words and Music by MICHAEL JOHN LaCHIUSA
Based on the play "The House of Bernarda Alba" by Federico García Lorca
BERNARDA ALBA is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals. www.concordtheatricals.com
BERNARDA ALBA was originally produced by Lincoln Center Theater, New York City, 2006
Date: 13 May (Mon) - 18 May (Sat)
Venue: Academy Studio Theatre