About the event
Canto Op—The Oracle | Chinese Opera Information

This new Cantonese opera comedy extravaganza takes the audience on a whimsical journey through a dreamscape filled with seemingly impossible illusions and comedic chaos, revealing deep secrets behind ancient Chinese mythologies.
Original comedy by pioneering Cantonese opera company
Revealing cosmic secrets of ancient China
Set in ancient China 1,500 years ago during the Northern and Southern dynasties, this Cantonese opera comedy tells the story of a country trying to save the livelihood of its people and the gravely ill emperor. Does mythology hold the key to saving the world?
Filled with impeccably devised comedy moments while delving deep into the meaning of mythology for mankind, The Oracle transforms a brilliant cast of Cantonese opera performers into a luminous ensemble of immortals from the heavens well known in Chinese culture. Throughout this journey full of ingeniously conceived theatrical devices and creatively imagined musical arrangements, a humanistic reverie between heaven and earth is felt, and the spiritual foundation of Chinese culture takes centre stage.
Led by popular Cantonese opera stars Keith Lai and Wyborn Leung Wai-hong, Canto Op has been dedicated to the exploration of new possibilities in contemporary xiqu performances since its establishment 10 years ago. From newly written dramas and comedies to remakes of beloved classics, its productions have remained faithful to the spirit of Cantonese opera traditions while incorporating a fresh youthfulness that has delighted audiences time and again. From the themes of its stories to the music composition and set and space design, its innovations have been continual and multi-dimensional. Twice invited to perform overseas, its comedy performances have proved particularly popular, and its Chinese New Year productions have been sold-out year after year and received widespread acclaim.
The Oracle is a culmination of Canto Op’s 10 years of experience and creative insights, bringing together a fantastic crew which has developed a deep sense of synergy and intuitive understanding. This unique comedy show represents yet another creative breakthrough by the company and promises to bring the audience a fresh, captivating Cantonese opera experience.
Follow in the footsteps of the main lead, Mr Sima, and traverse a dreamscape filled with seemingly impossible illusions and comedic chaos, revealing deep secrets behind ancient Chinese myths.
Show Details
- Canto Op—The Oracle
- Date: March 16-17, 2024
- Time: 2:30PM | 7:30PM (16th)
- Venue: Auditorium, Shatin Town Hall
- Address: No. 1 Yuen Wo Road, Shatin, Hong Kong
Ticketing Information
- Tickets are available for purchase from 1 December 2023 at URBTIX
- Ticket price: HKD 420 / 360 / 280 / 200 / 140 | Students: 180 / 140 / 100 / 70
Remark
Performed in Cantonese with Chinese and English surtitles
Commissioned by the Hong Kong Arts Festival
CREATIVES
Playwrights | Keith Lai and Wyborn Leung Wai-hong
Executive Directors | Wyborn Leung Wai-hong and Keith Lai
Music Designer | Jason Kong
Lighting Designer | Wyborn Leung Wai-hong
Set Designer | Cheung Ching-wo
Choreographer | Vanessa Tsang
Martial Arts Designer and Instructor | Han Yanming
Percussion Leader | Ko Yun-kuen
Music Leader | Share Ka-lok
Stage Managers | Ko Man-him and Chan Oi-lin
CAST
Lai Yiu-wai
Wyborn Leung Wai-hong
Alan Tam Wing-lun
Vong Seng-pan
Janet Wong
Fu Shuwang
Gregory Kwok Kai-fai
Edgar Ng Lap-hei
Shum Pak-chuen
Information Source: Hong Kong Arts Festival official website