Sound Bites
It's been a busy year for you, having been involved in 10 stage productions. What were the highlights and what are you looking forward to in 2008?
Actor Edmond Tong Chun-yip, 29:
'This year got off on a low note for me because I found myself struggling in Windmill Grass Theatre's production of Pine Tree Under the Moon [in January]. It was a tough role because I had to learn traditional Chinese operatic moves and I thought I did a lousy job at the time. I thought I wasn't living up to the director's expectations. Because of that, I really wanted to improve my acting techniques in the next production and I found a role I could relate to in W Theatre's Once in a Lifetime.
'This show was a revelation. The role was easy to handle but that was not the reason why I enjoyed it. Rather, it was a well-written character and I was able to touch the audience with it. It's very important to find a role that can move people ... if it does nothing for me, then it will do nothing for the audience.
'I hope I'll be able to put what I learned and realised this year into practice in the coming year. I want to be in dramas that have heart ... I think they're somewhat lacking on the local theatre scene these days.'
Tong will appear in Windmill Grass Theatre's The Cat in Red Boots (in Cantonese), Jan 5-10, 8pm; Jan 6, 3pm, Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, HK$180 and HK$240. Inquiries: 9050 9421
