While The Nutcracker is a timeless classic, Hong Kong Ballet has infused the performance with local culture to reflect the city’s “unique identity”.
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Septime Webre, artistic director of the elite ballet school, said he reimagined The Nutcracker to celebrate early 20th century Hong Kong.
“Hong Kong is a fusion city,” he said. “But its soul is a Hong Kong soul. There are influences from the West and all over, but I wanted The Nutcracker to reflect the city’s unique identity.”
With the creative approach, the ballet school incorporated historical landmarks such as the Kowloon-Canton Railway Clock Tower, and traditions like the Cheung Chau Bun Festival, shadow puppet theatre and even dim sum.
The production’s goal was to entertain and create a deeper connection between Hong Kong’s rich history and its modern audience.
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“I am passionate about history and this production allows us to present early 20th century Hong Kong as a setting for the story, while blending it with fantasy,” he said. “We invite the audience to engage with the city’s past in a playful and meaningful way.”