The third Asia+ Festival commenced last Friday (September 19) with the opening programme of the box-office hit "The Cherry Orchard" at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre for three consecutive nights. The Festival, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, is held annually from September to November with an aim to create a sustainable platform for arts and cultural exchanges.
 
     The Korean theatre production of "The Cherry Orchard" by internationally renowned director Simon Stone, starring Cannes Best Actress Jeon Do-yeon and globally recognised actor Park Hae-soo from "Squid Game", brings striking originality to Russian master dramatist Anton Chekhov's classic. Stone, Jeon and Park also attended meet-the-artist sessions after the performances and shared their thoughts on their participation in the production.
 
     Stone said that he was very excited as "The Cherry Orchard" marked the first time his work had been physically performed in Hong Kong, serving as the first stop of the play's world tour. Park, Jeon and actor Son Sang-kyu mentioned that before the show they were concerned that the language barrier would affect the viewing experience, but soon found out onstage that the audience was fully engaged, responding actively to the plot's developments and enjoying the entire performance. Jeon added that this performance in Hong Kong, bringing together an Australian director, Korean actors, and a Russian classic, was an amazing experience for her.
 
     While focusing on Asia, the Asia+ Festival also connects with Belt and Road countries and regions. This year, the Festival is bringing together outstanding artists from over 30 countries and regions, of which 12 are new participating countries including South Africa, North Macedonia and Argentina, which are presenting respectively the dance performance "We wear our wheels with pride", the folk concert "Makedonissimo", "Tango After Dark", and more. Please visit www.asiaplus.gov.hk for more details on the programme line-ups.
 
     Tickets are now available at URBTIX counters, self-service ticketing kiosks, online (www.urbtix.hk), mobile ticketing app URBTIX, and by telephone booking (hotline: 3166 1288). For programme enquiries and other discount schemes, please call 2370 1044 or visit the website.

Ends/Monday, September 22, 2025
Issued at HKT 17:16

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