(ANN/THE CHINA DAILY) – The Hong Kong Ballet has unveiled its highly anticipated 2024/25 Season, promising a captivating blend of premieres and cherished classics that are set to enchant audiences. This season, the company is poised to offer a diverse range of performances, making it a must-see for both ballet enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Leading the lineup is the enchanting debut of The Wizard of Oz, which invites audiences on a whimsical journey with Dorothy and her iconic companions.
Next, the company will present The Butterfly Lovers, a timeless Chinese legend that beautifully depicts a story of star-crossed romance.
In a poignant turn, Hong Kong Ballet will also introduce Frida, a powerful portrayal of the life and struggles of renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.
Rounding out the season is a mesmerizing new interpretation of Giselle, a classic ballet known for its compelling tale of love, betrayal, and redemption.
Adding to the season’s allure is the premiere of Tutu Academy, a delightful and eccentric short film created to celebrate Hong Kong Ballet’s 45th anniversary.
Artistic director Septime Webre describes the film as a tribute to the unifying power of ballet, set in a retro-futuristic Hong Kong, where a space alien discovers solace and joy through the universal language of dance, emphasizing the beauty of meaningful connections in our diverse world.
Renowned choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, Academy Award-winning designer Tim Yip, Chinese composer Tian Mi, and the Macao Orchestra will lend their talent to the season’s productions, alongside esteemed guest principal dancers such as Qi Bingxue from Shanghai Ballet and Iana Salenko from Berlin State Ballet.
In a highlight of the season, the company will embark on a tour to Beijing in November, presenting Alice (in wonderland) at the National Center for the Performing Arts.
Choreographed by Webre, this innovative production seamlessly blends dance, theater, and puppetry, offering a captivating fusion of traditional ballet with contemporary vibrancy, promising a mesmerizing experience for audiences in Beijing.
