What's on in Hong Kong this Summer: August
August is sure to blaze on by: spoil your ancestral spirits, gear up for the International Film Festival and lie to your friends about going to see “Pinocchio.”
The Nose Knows
Jiminy Cricket! Get ready to watch some noses grow—the world premiere of “Pinocchio” is hitting the Hong Kong stage this August. Performed by The Hong Kong Ballet, your favorite fairy tale classic comes to life thanks to renowned Swedish choreographer Pär Isberg. Watch to see if the naughty Pinocchio will follow his conscience and become a real boy, or just lie non-stop like the rest of us.
Aug 28-30, various times. Grand Theatre, Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui. $140-1,000 from www.hkballet.com/201516.
Is this the face of a liar?
Talkin’ Bout a Revolution
The first two Splash ‘n’ Dash races from Revolution Asia have already come and gone but ocean swimmers should keep their schedules open for a few more events coming up this summer: There’s the Ocean Swim Series at various beaches around Hong Kong (registration opens Jun 15), and EAST Aquathon 16.3—an individual or relay race that combines trail running, road running and open-water swimming.
Start training now! Stay tuned at www.revolution-asia.com.
Take One
As one of the city’s biggest platforms for filmmakers and industry professionals, the Hong Kong Summer International Film Festival runs throughout the month. But you don’t have to work in the idustry to go. Showcasing more than 30 films, the festival provides celluloid-lovers with the newest and best of film from across the globe. cinefan.com.hk.
Enter the Dragon
Did you miss Imagine Dragons’ free gig last year at the “Transformers” premiere? The Las Vegas alt-rock band is coming back for a one-night performance. This time though you’ll have to pay. Sorry, dragon darlings.
Aug 23, 9pm. AsiaWorld-Arena, Sky Plaza Rd., Chek Lap Kok. $288-788 from www.hkticketing.com.
Mother of dragons!
Ghosts with the Most
Ready those paper Louis Vuittons and tricked-out Alphards: the Hungry Ghost Festival, aka Yu Lan Festival, is on the horizon. It’s the time of year when relatives burn offerings and faux money for ancestors to use in the afterlife—because every spirit deserves a shiny new BMW. Look out for traditional Chinese opera shows on bamboo stages, which is a highlight of the festival.
Aug 28. Around town.
Let Yourself Go
Even if you’re a grown-ass adult, it’s hard not to be at least a tiny bit excited about Hong Kong Disneyland’s new “Frozen” Village. Too proud to be seen surrounded by kids? Just let it go and head over for special musical performances by Queen Elsa, Princess Anna and Kristoff, as well as a whole host of freezing activities such as toboggan rides and snowman building.
Through August 30. Lantau Island. Standard entry fees apply: $499 adults. www.hongkongdisneyland.com.
