For Your Diary: What’s On In Hong Kong for May

We begin May with a public holiday (ahhh, lovely lie in!), and continue with a variety of exciting events! It’s Hong Kong’s busiest month for art, but there are also tons of other events, concerts and shows going on too. We’ve got the lowdown on when and where to get your art and culture fix this month…

Tappin’ canines…
We love a phenomenal show here at Sassy HQ, and the latest offering by Australian creator and choreographer Dein Perry looks to be utterly sensational! TAP DOGS, nearly in its 20^th year, is a story of steelworkers in Australia told through tap. It sounds simple enough… unless you’re dancing on multi-level ramps and in water! We can’t promise you won’t get wet, especially if you’re in the front row. The sheer thrill of the show will have you tapping along! And in more good news, we’re giving away a pair of tickets for the opening night performance to two lucky winners sponsored by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions. Enter before 12 May!

 This giveaway has now closed. Please stay tuned for future giveaways!

When: 20-25 May
Where: The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
How much: $350, $550, $750 and $850, for more ticketing info see here. Tickets available at www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288. For more info, see their Facebook page and website!

Art Basel
As one of the three (lucky) participating cities for Art Basel, we’re excited that it’s back for another round! Have a gander around the Convention Centre and check out the amazing works from galleries all over the world, plus loads of expert talks, special presentations and panel discussions. Whether you’re a collector, artist, critic or you just want to see what all the fuss is about – this is one of the highlights of Hong Kong’s cultural calendar. We’ve managed to bag a pair of free tickets to Art Basel sponsored by The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas Hotel to giveaway to one of our lucky readers! Simply drop your details into the form for your chance to win these exclusive tickets…

This giveaway has now closed. Please stay tuned for future giveaways!

When: 15-18 May
Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
How much: Ticket prices start from $250 for a two-day pass. Tickets can be purchased here.

Keeping Green
After the amazing success of Green Queen’s Made in HK pop-up in March, we decided to team up with them again for a second round this May! If you’re looking for all things homemade and homegrown, this is the perfect place to stop by. With some amazing local artisanal vendors who will be offering a range of handcrafted, sustainable products, this is a unique market you can’t miss. Eat some delicious food (picnic-style) at the Green Queen Cafe, take some organic fare home with you at the Green Queen Supermarket, and treat yourself to some locally made products at the Green Queen Living section. Support these local businesses and treat yourself to some goodness!

When: 3 May, 10am-6pm
Where: The Space, 210 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
How much: $10 only to attend! RSVP here for your chance to win a two-day Genie Concepts juice cleanse! For more info, click here.

Night market magic
We love a good market, and there seems to be more and more popping up in HK. One of the latest markets to hit the scene is the Night Market at PMQ Central! Organised by the same people who do of one of our favourites, Island East Markets, the Night Market is set to become your new go-to shopping destination. Oh, and did we forget to mention we’re the online media partners? This weekend market will include open-air music concerts, chefs, handmade crafts, designers, musicians and artists. Along with the best of Hong Kong’s creative scene, there will also be fantastic food vendors to curb those hunger pangs… what more could you want from a weekend?

When: 25-27 April, 2-4 May, 30 May-1 June (Fridays: 6-11pm, Saturdays: 5-11pm, Sundays: 12-5pm)
Where: PMQ Central, 35 Aberdeen, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry!

Island Hopping
If you can’t get enough of the markets this month, you’ll pleased to hear that Discovery Bay Sunday market, organised by Handmade Hong Kong, is back! A gathering of Hong Kong’s best artisans, designers and small business owners will be selling fine jewellery, vintage clothes, ceramics and eco-friendly stationery amongst other homemade crafts. This market on the DB is perfect for a lazy Sunday stroll and it’s back for your pleasure every second Sunday of the month.

When: 11am-6am, 11 May
Where: D’Deck, Discovery Bay, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry!

Peace out
If, like many Sassy girls out there, you’re feeling overwhelmed with balancing work and play, MAYYA Movement’s 24 hour wellness retreat might be just what you need to recharge, reenergise and refocus. Pick up some life lessons from world experts to help iron out the corners of your mind. You’ll also get the chance to learn some healthy cooking tips to make mealtimes easier. Perfect your yoga and Pilates moves which will get your mind, body and soul working in tandem. We’re sold on anything that makes us feel better from the inside and out (check out our write up here!).

When: 2-7pm on 24 May, 7am-5pm on 25 May
Where: W Hotel, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Send an email to [email protected] to find out about availability; tickets are $3,900

For sake’s sake…
We usually find ourselves enjoying sake with some sumptuous sushi and sashimi – the perfect combination! If you can’t get enough of this unique Japanese liqueur then you’ll love Hong Kong’s first premier sake and food tasting event, Sake Room. You’ll be able to try 75 different types of award-winning sakes that will tantalise your taste buds and don’t forget the delicious food pairings too!  It’s your last chance to buy tickets so snap them up quick.

When: 9-10 May, open to the public until 2am
Where: Hong Kong Maritime Museum, Pier 8, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Regular tickets are $880, on the door they’re $1,080. For more info, visit www.sake-room.com

Gallery girls
It’s the season when art hits our city with a bang! In the run up to the biggest art event of the year, Art Basel, the Hong Kong Art Gallery Association has organised an Art Gallery Night. A number of galleries in Central, Soho, Sheung Wan, Wan Chai, Aberdeen, Chai Wan and Sha Tin will be open for one night only showcasing their collections. There will be special tours, openings and artist-sharing sessions, so it’s the perfect opportunity to get up to speed on some of HK’s best galleries. Mingle with other art enthusiasts and get involved with Hong Kong Arts Month.

When: 6-10.30pm, 13 May
Where: Visit the HKAGA website here to find out about participating galleries
How much: Free entry!

Belly laughs…
We love a good stand up act, and thanks to TakeOut Comedy, we regularly get our fix. This time, they’re bringing American comedian Ruben Paul back to our shores for several nights of giggles. He was last in the ‘Kong opening up for Canadian-Indian comic Russell Peters last year, and has graced the silver screen on the Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson and on Comedy Central. If you’re feeling the effects of flu season and the change in weather, we highly recommend a night of chuckles. They say laughter is the best medicine…

When: 22-25 May
Where: Various venues, more details here
How much: A reasonably-priced evening, anywhere from $250-300 depending which night you go; ticket prices here

Presenting the immortal Chaplin
From stand up to slapstick, we’ve really got it all this month. To celebrate what would have been screen icon Charlie Chaplin’s 125^th birthday, HK Phil presents two of his films, City Lights and Kid Auto Races. The original ‘photobomber’ (we’re sure he’d go nuts with a smartphone and Instagram!), has seen his movies stand the test of time. We can’t wait to indulge in some cinematic heritage!

When: 2 & 3 May
Where: Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $120, $160, $200 and $280. Book your tickets here

The dog whisperer
Ever wondered what your dog is trying to communicate to you? Or can you simply not get it to behave? Renowned canine expert Cesar Millan hits Hong Kong for one night only as part of the Asian leg of his tour. He’ll be showing off his talent in resolving behavioural issues in your pet pooches in his live show, so dog lovers – this one’s for you! Even if you need some convincing of Cesar’s skills, you’ll surely enjoy the sight of some cute dogs on stage… they truly are a girl’s best friend! Check out our exclusive interview with Cesar here!

When: 7pm, 11 May
Where: Asia World Expo, Lantau, Hong Kong
How much: $480, $680, $880, for more ticketing info see here. Tickets available at www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288

Constantly Constance
“One should always be in love. That is the reason one should never marry.” These famous words are from brilliant playwright Oscar Wilde… perhaps not so encouraging for his wife, Constance! Created by Clare Stearns, Constance – The Amazing Mrs. Oscar Wilde tells the story of Oscar’s wife. She stood by her man at every step as she gradually came to terms with his sexuality. The topic sounds heavy, but it’s punctuated by opera and Oscar Wilde’s typically witty remarks.

When: 8-10 May
Where: Fringe Club, 2 Lower Albert Road, Central, Hong Kong
How much: $280, tickets available here or from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288

Collaged creations
We love it when people visit the ‘Kong and get inspired by our beautiful city. That’s exactly what Los Angeles-based artist Mark Bradford did when he created a series of works about Hong Kong and its urban environment. His multi-layered collaged paintings at the White Cube reflect the dense population, and are sure to get you thinking. Having exhibited at various biennials around the world, Bradford’s work is on the rise, so this is one exhibition you don’t want to miss.

When: 14 May – 30 August
Where: White Cube, 50 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong
How much: Free to visit

Ooh la la!
When people think of France, often images of the Eiffel Tower, cheese, wine and baguettes spring to mind. However, it’s important to remember that France has some of the world’s most famous art museums too, including the iconic Louvre. It’s no surprise then that Le French May is back for another year, collaborating with many local artists (and coinciding with the heaviest month of arty happenings). Showcasing French creativity, arts and culture, Le French May includes exhibitions, films and performances that will keep you entertained. This year marks the 50^th anniversary of relations with China so there’s sure to be a lot of exciting celebrations and special events going on too!

When: 2 May – 28 June
Where: All over town! Check out the various events here
How much: Varies depending on the event, see here for more info

The art-y doesn’t stop…
It truly doesn’t, as we’re completely spoiled for choice with art goings on this month. The Asia Contemporary Art Show has moved to bigger pastures at the Conrad Hong Kong Hotel this year due to the sheer number of exhibitors showing off original work, sculptures and photography. Spend a fun evening schmoozing among the collectors and critics from more than 18 countries around the world – and you get a complimentary drink with your ticket to boot!

When: 1-5pm on 16 May, 1-8.30pm on 17 & 18 May
Where: 40-44 Floor, Conrad Hong Kong Hotel, One Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Hong Kong
How much: $180 for a standard ticket, $260 for a VIP ticket, tickets available here or from www.hkticketing.com, 3128 8288

Chai Wan Mei
Yet another art and performance exhibition put together in conjunction with the godfather of all art events this year, Art Basel. Chai Wan Mei invites the public to see what happens behind closed doors in the art world. With two days of 30 studios, 10 performances, 60 artists and designers and thousands of visitors, it’s set to be Art Basel’s raucous and cheeky little cousin. We’re looking forward to Chai Wan Nites, the big party at the end of it all!

When: 16-17 May
Where: Chai Wan Industrial City Phase 1, 60 Wing Tai Road, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
How much: Free admission

Bright lights
As much as we love Hong Kong, the nightly laser light show tends to go amiss among the things that are a must-see in this city. We have more of an appreciation for the stunning skyline that backdrops the light show instead. Until now. In line with Art Basel (we just can’t get by without mentioning it again!), German artist Carsten Nicolai presents α (alpha) pulse, an audio-visual installation across the 490-metre high ICC. There’s an app available for download too, so you can be in control of the show when you want! This is interactive art on a giant scale!

When: 15-17 May
Where: On the side of the ICC. We suggest heading to Tamar Park, Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park or the terrace on Podium 3 and 4 of IFC Mall for a good view.
How much: Free to view, for more info click here

Art for a good cause
Stanley is one of the tourist hot spots in Hong Kong, and for good reasons too. With shopping opportunities galore and gorgeous views from the south side of Hong Kong Island, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon. That’s why we were excited to hear that the Ocean Art Walk will be held along the Stanley waterfront! Featuring sculptures, art and photography installations and dance performances, this an ideal location to check out some art. And at Sassy, we love things with a message, so the fact that this is all about appreciating the ocean makes it even better! Time to celebrate the sea…

When: 12 April-4 May
Where: Stanley Promenade, Stanley Main Street, Southern District, Hong Kong
How much: Free! There are also guided tours on Saturdays and Sundays at 11am and 1pm.

A MacSequel
We’ve got Shakespeare fever at Sassy HQ! So imagine our surprise when we discovered a new play being shown in the ‘Kong. It’s one we’d never heard of before, yet bares the bard’s name all over it: Dunsinane. In this day and age of cinematic sequel after sequel after sequel, it only made sense for someone to come along and do a sequel to one of Shakespeare’s works. Dunsinane follows on from MacBeth, and is supposed to be as bloody, gory and violent as we expect!

When: 2-4 May
Where: Auditorium, Kwai Tsing Theatre, 12 Hing Ning Road, Kwai Chung, New Territories, Hong Kong
How much: $200, $280, $380 and $480. Tickets available here

Le grand opéra!
The phantom of the op… no, our mistake. But famous French opera Faust is in town, thanks to Opera Hong Kong and as part of Le French May. If you’re in the mood for some classical culture get ready to be moved to tears with the stunning rendition of the nearly 200 year old opera. As they say, it’s not over until the fat lady sings!

When: 8-11 May
Where: Hong Kong Cultural Centre, 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: $150, $300, $420, $680 and $880. Tickets are available here

Olé!
The Spanish Chamber of Commerce is hosting La Feria – a fair to celebrate all things Spanish! Featuring more than 20 exhibitors, it’s a good place to get your chorizo and flamenco fix, and possibly pick up a few Spanish phrases to use on your next European jaunt! With your ticket you get a free drink (sangria, anyone?), and a tapa of paella. Sounds like a fun weekend; wouldn’t you agree, Sassy señioritas?

When: 10-11 May, 12-8pm
Where: The Arcade, Cyberport, 100 Cyberport Road, Southern District, Hong Kong
How much: $150 before 9 May, $200 on or after 10 May. Tickets available here