Backstage 2019

A unique theatrical work about Cantonese opera that features both English and Cantonese dialogues, Backstage is written and directed by professional stage actor Musette Tsang. Since its premiere at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2014, the show has toured to the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, China, South Korea and Singapore to critical acclaim.

The story unfolds behind the scenes at a Cantonese opera performance: As the troupe are getting ready for the stage, a foreign-born Chinese journalist, who does not speak Cantonese, is given a backstage tour by the producer. She watches the Monkey King rehearsing a combat scene with the lead actor who plays a civil-military role, the lead actress practising her tip-toe movement, and the bearded actor flaunting his skills with the long beard… all of which fascinates the young journalist who is new to the art. At this moment, an aged artist walks into the backstage and, being mistaken for a substitute musician, begins rehearsing with the ensemble. The performance begins, and the cast take to the stage. The aged artist remains backstage by himself, humming a nanyin tune that reveals, to everyone’s surprise, that he is a renowned Cantonese opera veteran…

Cantonese Opera Excerpt: Scramble for an Umbrella
Performed by: Yuen Siu-fai  Chan Wing-yee

Performed by: Spring Glory Cantonese Opera Workshop
Performed in Cantonese and English with Chinese and English surtitles.
Free admission by ticket.
For PolyU students, staffs and alumni only.

All tickets have been distributed. Thank you for your support! Walk-ins are welcome if seats are available after the commencement of the programme on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cast List of Backstage

 
Cast List of Cantonese Opera Excerpt: Scramble for an Umbrella

Enquiry: 3400 2433