Last night Hong Kong Players‘ Beauty & The Beast delivered more than just entertainment this holiday season – it created a moment of genuine community connection and inclusion.
As part of Hugill & Ip’s The Ability Bridges campaign, families from the Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association and several partner NGOs attended a special performance. The audience buzzed with excitement as children and adults alike participated in the classic panto traditions, from enthusiastic calls of “He’s behind you!” to singing along with contemporary musical numbers.
The show’s message of acceptance and transformation resonated deeply with attendees. Watching Beauty discover the true nature of the Beast paralleled the evening’s broader theme of looking beyond appearances to find connection and understanding.
“Seeing the joy on children’s faces as they experienced live theatre, many for the first time, was truly magical,” shared Adam Hugill. “This event exemplifies our commitment to building bridges within our community through shared experiences.”
The production’s mix of slapstick comedy, musical numbers, and interactive moments created an inclusive environment where everyone felt welcome to participate and express themselves freely.
This special evening demonstrated how the arts can bring diverse communities together, creating lasting memories and fostering understanding across all abilities.
