‘An Invitation: On Empty Theatre’ by Freespace and Edward Lam Dance Theatre

All Hongkongers at this point have experienced some form of physical isolation, especially over the past year. The COVID-19 global pandemic has also had a major impact on theatres, actors, and the art industry worldwide. That’s why Freespace by the West Kowloon Cultural District and Edward Lam Dance Theatre have come together to explore the idea of live performances done completely solo.

‘An Invitation: On Empty Theatre’ invited 30 Hong Kong-based actors to stand inside an empty theatre—The Box at Freespace—alone and with no audiences. Facing an empty auditorium, each artist performed an unrehearsed monologue on their relationship with the audience, the meaning of theatre as a space and art form, and reflections on their personal and artistic lives. These were then made into a series of profound and heartfelt short films.

The series will be launched on West Kowloon’s YouTube channel and website on July 9 2020 (Thursday). All videos are in Cantonese with English and Chinese subtitles, inviting audiences across the world to join Hong Kong in thinking about the ideas of theatre and audience.

Watch on YouTube