Gala Production 2018 - The Tempest

This adaptation of The Tempest is set against the enchanting backdrop of 19th-century Thailand, a choice that enhances Shakespeare’s tale with rich cultural and historical significance. Thailand’s mystic beauty, uninhabited islands, and deep-rooted traditions in superstition and folklore are seamlessly woven into the story, creating an ideal setting for the play's supernatural elements. Shadow puppetry, or Nang Yai, and traditional Thai dance, under the guidance of local experts, add a unique and authentic flavour to the performance, blending the culture of Southeast Asia with Shakespeare’s imaginative world. This particular interpretation is set in 1855, during the era of the Bowring Treaty, which initiated the modernisation of Thailand. The characters of Alonso and Prospero are inspired by historical figures King Rama IV and Sri Suriyawongse, whose diplomatic efforts opened Siam to the West, mirroring Prospero and Alonso's evolving relationship towards understanding and forgiveness.

A notable choice in this adaptation is the casting of a female Prospero, reimagined as the formidable Duchess of Bangkok. Her magic, both a source of power and a defence mechanism, is a way to cope with the mysterious death of her husband, a loss that shapes her motivations and feud with Alonso. This Prospero’s emotional journey, driven by the desire to protect her daughter Miranda, reveals a more vulnerable side that contrasts with her authoritative demeanor. The music of Led Zeppelin, with its heavy rock and psychedelic influences, underscores the play, reflecting the intense and otherworldly atmosphere of the story. The adaptation strives to maintain The Tempest’s central themes of forgiveness, passion, and the quest for knowledge, blending Shakespearean romance with the vibrant spirit of Thai culture and modern rock, all while honoring the play’s magical and transformative power.

A huge thank you to our sponsors, whose generous support and invaluable collaboration made this incredible production possible. Our heartfelt thanks go to The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, First Initiative Foundation, 3812 Art Enterprises Limited, The Jessie & George Ho Charitable Foundation, Caritas Bianchi College of Careers, Gnet, and our founding sponsor, Swire Properties, for their commitment to our vision. We also appreciate the thoughtful contribution of G2000 as our Gala Production T-Shirt Sponsor.

The S4A Annual Gala

The S4A Annual Gala has become the leader in the Children’s Performance Arts field in Hong Kong. Each year one of Shakespeare’s classic plays is reimagined to align itself with the history, heritage, and culture of Asia, mixed with elements and concepts from the modern days.

​Since 2018, S4A Annual Gala has been funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust through their support for the Jockey Club "Destiny In Ourselves" Youth Drama Programme and Jockey Club "All The World's Our Stage" Shakespeare Youth Drama Programme. The Gala has a cast, orchestra, and production team of over 100 young people aged between 8 and 18. It is an opportunity for young people to challenge their aspirations to step out of their comfort zone and embrace the power and magic of theatre both on and off the stage.

They learn performance skills such as classical theatre training, physical theatre techniques, vocal and singing training, dance, stage combat, martial arts, puppetry, character, and cultural study. The chosen students undertake intensive training over August and the performance is usually in September. The audition applications are cut off at 300 and only 60 places are available.

The student technical production team of the Gala are from the S4A Powerhouse Project, who embark on a week-long theatre internship as the final part of their 2-month training. Additional students who are part of the production team are Alumni of the performers who work directly beside the Artistic Director as Junior Assistant Directors.