HKCC Cultural Arts Journey of the Asia+ Festival 2025

Following the tremendous triumph of past editions, the 3rd Asia+ Festival in 2025 continues to focus on Asia while transcending geographical boundaries, connecting “Belt and Road” countries and regions in Europe, Africa, and the Americas to strengthen Hong Kong as a vital cultural exchange platform for Asia. This year, we showcase more than 100 performances and activities from Sep – Nov, bringing together outstanding artists from over 30 countries and regions. Prepare to embark on a rich cultural arts journey and enjoy a diverse array of art forms, including theatre, dance, and music. 

The Cherry Orchard directed by Simon Stone

Opening Programme: The Cherry Orchard 

Starring Cannes Best Actress Doyeon Jeon and Haesoo Park from Squid Game, The Cherry Orchard brings a dazzling South Korean cast to the Hong Kong Cultural Centre (HKCC). This performance marks not only the grand opening of the Asia+ Festival on 19 Sep but also the inaugural stop of the original cast’s world tour. As a retelling of Chekhov’s classic, acclaimed director Simon Stone breathes new life into the play with a modern-day perspective, central to contemporary Korean culture and social ideology. The brilliant acting and stunning production design captivate, making this an unforgettable highlight of Sep. 

Hinotori—The Wings of Phoenix by YAMATO: The Drummers of Japan

The Enduring Spirit of Phoenix 

For years, taiko has woven itself into our lives, embodying both traditional artistry and modern entertainment. YAMATO: The Drummers of Japan, a renowned taiko drumming ensemble with over 5,000 performances in 55 countries and regions, graces Hong Kong with Hinotori—The Wings of Phoenix. 11 drummers push their physical limits by wielding the spirit of phoenix, a mythical creature symbolising hope and renewal, offering a vibrant representation of Asian cultures to global audiences. They bring with them the signature odaiko, a colossal taiko weighing 500 kg and measuring 2 metres in diameter, crafted from a 400-year-old tree—ensuring an exhilarating experience that showcases the vigorous power of taiko drumming. 

Beyond Asia: Embracing the Zulu Traditions 

Our journey expands beyond Asia to embrace the richness of Africa. Choreographed by Olivier Award winner Robyn Orlin and performed by South Africa’s flagship contemporary dance company, Moving Into Dance Mophatong, We wear our wheels with pride blends traditional Zulu dances with a mix of tribal and modern music. This performance pays homage to the history of Zulu rickshaw drivers while blossoming with the breathtaking colours and mystical energies of the Rainbow Nation. 

A Night Imbued with Mysterious Allure of Buenos Aires 

Jumping to Argentina, we have Tango After Dark, led by international tango superstar and world champion Germán Cornejo. This mesmerising performance captures the seductive power of Argentina’s most iconic dance, fusing the intoxicating music of legendary composer Astor Piazzolla. The sensuality, quick-fire precision, and passion deliver everything you expect from tango, accompanied by jaw-dropping moves that defy imagination. 

Makedonissimo by Simon Trpčeski and Friends

Maestros Return in Great Music  

As before, the Asia+ Festival unites the finest classical musicians from around the world, presenting extraordinary music programmes, masterclasses, and pre-concert talks in the Great Music Series. Makedonissimo features acclaimed Macedonian pianist Simon Trpčeski, who returns to Hong Kong to collaborate with his friends and three local talents, infusing Macedonian folk melodies with Cantopop influences. The first Asian winner of the Chopin Piano Competition, Vietnamese pianist Dang Thai Son, also makes a return after seven years, performing masterpieces by Chopin, Fauré, and Ravel. Don’t miss the recital by Russian pianist Nikolai Lugansky and the duo recital by Latvian cellist Mischa Maisky and his pianist daughter, Lily Maisky. 

Cultural Celebrations with the Community 

We warmly invite everyone to join us on 16 Nov at the piazza and foyer of the HKCC to celebrate life’s rhythms and the shared resonance of culture at the widely popular outdoor carnival, Asian Ethnic Cultural Performances+ (AECP+). With the theme Dance in Immensity, the event features performances, on-site booths, workshops, and an exhibition, highlighting various dance styles and traditional dance costumes for you to explore. 

Other exciting stops along our cultural arts journey include Strangely Familiar by The Human Expression (T.H.E.) Dance Company, which is powered by holographic projection and cutting-edge technology, performed at the new performing arts landmark, East Kowloon Cultural Centre, among many more. For more details about the Asia+ Festival, please visit: https://www.asiaplus.gov.hk/2025/en/