National Ballet of China shows for Hong Kong handover anniversary celebrations range from the romantic to red classics
Troupe’s boss explains how performances will highlight different styles and abilities, with renditions of Giselle, La Bayadère and The Red Detachment of Women among the highlights
The National Ballet of China is bringing one of its signature pieces, Giselle, as well as a curious mixed bill that includes a Chinese reinterpretation of The Nutcracker to Hong Kong in June as part of the 20th anniversary celebrations of the handover.
“What we are going to put on show will be a crystallisation of our work over the past 60 years, and a love letter to the Hong Kong audience on this special occasion,” says Feng Ying, the troupe’s director and artistic director.
During its week-long stay, the internationally renowned ballet company will present the two-act romantic classic Giselle on June 3 and 4 at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, followed by two different gala programmes to be staged at Sha Tin Town Hall and Tuen Mun Town Hall on June 6 and 8, respectively.
“There will be no repetition,” stresses Feng, who handpicked the programmes with local dance veteran Pearl Chan Po-chu and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. “Each show has [its] own unique attractions. If possible I wish [people] could buy three tickets to see all of them.”