- This event has passed.
EVENT DESCRIPTION
Hong Kong is an open, transnational city. Of the countless overseas nationals who’ve settled here, French nationals have historically made up a large percentage. Before the pandemic, French Hong Kong residents represented the largest French community in Southeast Asia.
Since the beginning of the twentieth century, French people have been making their way to live in Hong Kong. During the Japanese invasion in 1941, many sacrificed their lives for the city. What motivated them to cross the sea to this small island? What continues to drive French people of all ages and backgrounds to come build a life in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong theatre director and playwright Wu Ho Fai leads a young creative team to reexamine the place where he grew up from the perspective of French Hong Kong residents. His quest leads too many questions: What exactly does it mean to be ‘French’? When does one become a Hongkonger? What happens when France meets Hong Kong? The answers unfold in this French–Hong Kong love letter addressed to every person who – past or present – has called Hong Kong home.
Pants Theatre Production has promoted documentary theatre since 2013, creating original works like Once Upon a Time in Choi Yuen Chuen, 1967, and What About Art in Hong Kong? Like documentary theatre, ethnographic theatre (ethnotheatre) emphasises real-life source material, but it places more focus on a specific community with an aim to enhance communication both within and outside that group. Examples include Estate Agent, which follows property agents; On the Record, about media workers; Together in Search of Light, about social workers; and Eternal Flame in the Dark, which discusses terminal care. Pas de deux à Hong Kong joins this tradition, exploring the uniqueness of French and Hong Kong cultures and ultimately setting off a dialogue between the two onstage.
Post-performance Talk
A chance to hear the artists talk about their work, which will take place in the auditorium following the performance on June 1.
The running time of the performance is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes with no intermission.
Performed in Cantonese and English with Chinese and English surtitles .
Part of the French May Arts Festival 2024
31.05–01.06.2024 （Fri–Sun) – 8 pm
01–02.06.2024 （Sat–Sun）- 3 pm
