As the cooler weather settles in, why not indulge in a show at the theatre or two? Because that’s what November is all about in HK – theatre, and lots of it! From Broadway to the West End and everywhere in between, there’s a smattering of stuff going on and definitely something for everyone as we head into the holiday season.
The Double Bass by Patrick Suskind
Head over to Premium Sofa Club, dubbed the new Fringe Club, for Patrick Suskind’s The Double Bass. This instalment of classical theatre from Brave Heart Theatre centres around Neil Art, a double bass player and his shortcomings. The monologue will also have an insightful look at orchestral music and the role of the double bassist – confined to the back of the pit. Check out Suskind’s moving take on this classic theatrical piece for a cultural night you won’t forget… tempted? Don’t forget to enter our special Sassy Giveaway – 5 lucky readers will win a pair of tickets to any performance of The Double Bass, worth $200. This giveaway closes on Monday 3 November.
When: 29 October-7 November
Where: Premium Sofa Club, Fui Nam Building, 212-216 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets are available here.
This giveaway is closed.
Clockenflap
The city’s famed festival is back! As someone who had the best time at Clockenflap last year, I’m gutted to be skipping out on this year’s instalment. Beers, live music, a mini shopping market, what more could you ask for? The line up so far includes The Flaming Lips, Mogwai, Tenacious D, Kool & The Gang, The Vaccines… and the list continues to grow. Don’t miss out on Hong Kong’s hottest festival!
When: 28-30 November
Where: West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade, West Kowloon Cultural District, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Standard tickets are $1,280 for the whole weekend, $510 for Friday, $680 for Saturday or Sunday. They’re available until 17 November. Get them here.
Hong Kong International Literary Festival
HK’s literary scene is constantly buzzing – there’s the book fair each year, and more recently, StoryWorthyWeek. Joining the ranks is the Hong Kong International Literary Festival. From discussion panels with authors and illustrators to themed talks and more, this is perfect for literary types. Notable mentions include Kate Adie discussing her career as one of the most visible female journalists in the world, and Love (And Sex) In the City, which is a discussion panel on the love lives of women in the Arab world, India and China. There’s bound to be something for everyone in this 10-day fest.
When: 31 October-9 November
Where: All over town!
How much: Click here for details on ticket prices for the various events.
Stomp Your Foot
Foot stomping is encouraged at this collaborative event between the Hong Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir and performers from the HKAPA. If you need to let out some aggression, check out this event for renditions of new and old songs. It’s bound to be a mood-lifter!
When: 1 November & 8 November
Where: Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets start from $200 and are available from www.hkticketing.com, 31 288 288.
Kalo Make Art
Fancy learning some calligraphy in time for the Christmas season? Those cards and thank you notes will look so much neater! Kalo Make Art is hosting some beginner calligraphy lessons where you’ll learn to write in beautifully and gain grounding in pen and ink tools as well as the basic brushstroke techniques. If you’ve successfully completed a beginner session, why not try an intermediate course? More deets here and stay tuned for our review coming soon!
When: 1 November, 10am-1pm is the Design Your Monogram beginner course, 2-5pm is the Colour Ink Calligraphy beginner course; 2 November, 10am-1pm is the Improve Your Capitals intermediate course.
Where: Room 101, Ivy House, 18-20 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong
How much: $700 for a 3-hour session. Register by emailing [email protected].
Hong Kong Stories
As part of Story Worthy Week (okay, it’s a bit longer than a week, but you know…), check out Hong Kong Stories at the Fringe Club. A group of people will share their autobiographical stories, and it will be somewhere between stand-up comedy and memoirs. Definitely one if you’re looking for a night of giggling away with the girls!
When: 5 November, 8pm
Where: Fringe Club, 2 Lower Albert Road, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets are $120 and available from www.hkticketing.com, 31 288 288.
Dragon-I’s 12th anniversary
HK’s hot spot Dragon-I is celebrating its 12 year anniversary this month! And to celebrate, they’ve got Soul II Soul performing, renowned DJ Otto Knows on the decks with Sasha Grey… and everyone’s favourite buddy from the French Prince of Bel-Air, DJ Jazzy Jeff.
When: Soul II Soul is performing on 11 November, Otto Knows and Sasha Grey on 21 November, Jazzy Jeff and a secret guest is performing on 3 December.
Where: Dragon-I, 60 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong
Terry Fox Run Hong Kong
For the second year in a row, the Terry Fox Run is a charitable activity, where all proceeds go to support cure-oriented, biomedical cancer research in town. There are three distances that you could run or walk (depending on how fit you’re feeling!). Register here as this one is invitation-only and there are only 1,500 spots available.
When: 8 November, 12-4pm
Where: Renaissance College, 5 Hang Ming Street, Ma On Shan, Hong Kong
How much: It’s free to enter, and you’ll be expected to collect funds to donate.
Rooftop Cinema – Little Miss Sunshine
Abigail Breslin became a household name thanks to this film… so why not indulge and watch it outdoors? Hushup’s rooftop cinema returns, starting with a showing of Little Miss Sunshine. Pick up some popcorn and drinks for a truly memorable experience. Not keen on this film in particular? A couple of others are showing throughout November too, but most of them are sold out. There are still tickets to Empire Records on 30 November, though… get in there quick!
When: Little Miss Sunshine is screening on 9 November at 6pm
Where: Shore, 3/F, The L Place, 139 Queen Road Central, Hong Kong
How much: $160, tickets available here.
Preloved Popup
A bit of retail therapy always puts a smile on our faces – yep, it’s true, we all really, really heart shopping. Especially when it comes to discounted designer threads! Grab a bargain and some preloved Jimmy Choos (among other designers) at Luxury Preloved, a fashionable and oh-so-sassy pop up. Part of the proceeds will go to Agape International Missions. Shopping for a good cause? We’re in, Flynn.
When: 9 November, 10.30am-6pm
Where: Culture Club, 15 Elgin Street, Soho, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Entry is free, but bring some cash if you see anything you like!
Light for Freedom
Running to Stop the Traffik is hosting this event to draw attention to the plight of young slavery victims. At KEE Club, guests will take a walk through Naked, an exhibit that circles the venue. RSVP if you’d like to pop down, take a look and lend your support to the charities that RTST are championing.
When: 10 November, 6-9pm
Where: KEE Club, 32 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Free, RSVP to [email protected].
Miami String Quartet
If you’re in the mood for classical music, check out the Miami String Quartet this month. The rich and balanced sounds of the foursome make them one of the most sought after quartets in chamber music today. In their 20th year, they bring their renditions of Schubert, Haydn and Giuliani to the concert hall of HK.
When: 12 & 14 November, 8pm
Where: Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets start from $150 and are available from www.hkticketing.com, 31 288 288.
Friday Finds
Pop over to The Hive in Sai Kung for Friday Finds. There’ll be sponsored wine (we’re there already!), a BBQ and more! The proceeds will be going to Angels for Orphans, a charity that aims to improve children’s lives worldwide. Who says we can’t have a little fun in the name of sweet charity?!
When: 14 November, 4-10pm
Where: The Hive, 5 Tai Mong Tsai Road, Sai Kung, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry
Natixis Rugby Cup 2014
French team Racing Metro 92 will be playing against the Hong Kong Football Club’s Rugby team in a one-off match this month. This isn’t the first time the French club will visit Hong Kong to show off their skills and this is the perfect chance to pop over and see the HKFC and keep an eye out for those men in shorts. Sorry, we mean keep an eye on the score…
When: 15 November, 3pm
Where: Hong Kong Football Club, 3 Sports Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong
How much: Entry is free
24 Hour Race for Running To Stop The Traffik
Students who are feeling particularly fit will be running rings around The Peak for a charitable cause. In its fifth year, the 24 Hour Race is also simultaneously held in Singapore and Malaysia in aid of stamping out youth slavery. If you’d like to join in and help hit that $5 million target, register to become a first-aid volunteer or a marshal before 31 October here. The charities supported this year include APLE Cambodia, Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation, HOME Singapore and Freedom Matters. Every little counts!
When: 15-16 November
Where: Lugard Road, The Peak, Hong Kong
How much: Donate through RTSK’s JustGiving page here.
Hong Kong Classic Car and Vintage Festival
We’re not one to get road rage, after all, we’re often hopping on HK’s super efficient public transport system. But a sexy, vintage car is just so James Bond, no? Check out the first ever Classic Car and Vintage Festival this year if you’re an automobile enthusiast. If not, put on your vintage gear (check out our guide to vintage stores in the city for some inspiration!) and head over, as it’s all vintage-themed. This event was supposed to be in October, but has been postponed to this month – talk about gaining hype!
When: 15 & 16 November
Where: Central Harbour front Event Space, 9 Lung Wo Road, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets start from $280 and are available here.
Romance
A courtroom comedy that lampoons everyone from lawyers, judges and chiropractors, this one isn’t for those who are PC-inclined. If you’re in the mood for comedic courtroom drama, pop over to the Fringe Club and check out Romance, written by award-winning playwright David Mamet.
When: 18-22 November, 7.30pm
Where: Fringe Club, 2 Lower Albert Road, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets start from $250 and are available from www.hkticketing.com, 31 288 288.
Bill Bailey
British funny man Bill Bailey hits the stage in HK with his Limboland tour! Expect his intelligent and sharp wit, musical numbers and of course, the stand-up comedy that he’s famous for across the globe. We’re hoping that this much-loved comic might encourage other UK comedians to visit our city… here’s hoping!
When: 19 November, 8pm
Where: Kowloon Bay International Trade & Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets start from $688 and are available from www.hkticketing.com, 31 288 288.
Xyza in Focus
Pop over to the Philippine Consulate for a look at a photography exhibition by Xyza Cruz Bacani. Her grainy street photography has won over Vogue Italia and even the New York Times. And she’s got ties to Hong Kong! Currently working as a domestic helper, her incredible talent is picking up momentum the world over.
When: 19-23 November. Opening cocktails are on 19 November from 7-9pm and the artist will be hosting a talk on 23 November from 1-3pm.
Where: The Philippine Consul General, 14/F United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty, Hong Kong
How much: Free entry
Chi Fan for Charity
Eat food for charity, you say? Um, sure! We’re massive foodies in the office (as if you needed reminding!) so we love the concept of Chi Fan For Charity, an initiative that aims to raise money for Enlighten Action for Epilepsy this year. The idea is simple: a celebrity or host has taken over a table at one of the 25 participating restaurants and all you have to do is buy your seat at the table. The proceeds will go to the local charity (check out our Sassy Supports on Enlighten Action for Epilepsy here). See you there!
When: 22 November
Where: All over town! Check out the list of participating restaurants here.
How much: Prices range from $750 to $1,200. More details here.
Pacquiao-Algeri: Clash in Cotai II
In the mood for a fight? Manny Pacquiao returns to Macau and this time he’s up against Chris Algieri to defend his welterweight crown. The undisputed champ of boxing, will he beat Algieri? Pop over to our sister SAR city for this one, girls, and make a weekend of it, as the match will take place at 8am. Yep, in the morning, we didn’t get that one wrong!
When: 23 November, 8am
Where: CotaiArena, The Venetian Macao, Estrada da Baía de N. Senhora da Esperança, s/n, Taipa, Macao SAR
How much: Tickets start from $880 and are available from www.cotaiticketing.com. More info on the fight here!
Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream
So you want to see a play? How about a play within a play? Or a play within a play within a play? One of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, hits the stage in the city this month, right on time for what we’re dubbing ‘theatre month’. Performed by Shakespeare’s very own Globe Theatre from the UK, this hilarious love triangle will surely entertain, as all the Bard’s plays do.
When: 19-23 November
Where: Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets start from $495 and are available from www.hkticketing.com, 31 288 288.
Avenue Q
West End and Broadway musical Avenue Q hits the stage in Hong Kong for the second time after its successful run last year. Join the gang as they sing and dance their way through this super popular production that’s all about entering adulthood. Get ready for a night of mischief!
When: 25-30 November, 8pm
Where: Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets start from $495 and are available from www.hkticketing.com, 31 288 288.
Connie Talbot
She rose to fame on talent show Britain’s Got Talent, and rightly so, as this is one talented little girl! Connie Talbot, at just age 13, performs in Hong Kong this month. Famously turned down by Simon Cowell’s record label, the singer has since released four albums including two Christmas-themed ones. Perfect for the upcoming holiday season!
When: 25 November, 8pm
Where: Jockey Club Auditorium, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, 11 Yuk Choi Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets start from $280 and are available from www.hkticketing.com, 31 288 288.
Hong Kong Art Gallery Week
Art Basel has well and truly gone, but that doesn’t mean our city isn’t known for its art scene. Art Gallery Week hits the ‘Kong for the second year running, bringing with it talks, tours and exhibitions from a host of galleries around town. All of the events are free, which is perfect if you want to get a little taste of the art scene in the city!
When: 26 November-5 December
Where: Art galleries around town! Find out about the participating galleries here.
How much: All events are free!
Bear It All: A Charitable Variety Night
We’ve heard of growing a ‘tache for a good cause, but how about shaving it all off for a good cause? Watch as a committed team of fundraisers shave their heads at a charity night for Animals Asia! The aim is to raise awareness about bear bile farming in China and Vietnam, and as serious as the issue is, the night is sure to be a whole lot of fun! There’ll be singing, dancing, poetry and music as well as a vegetarian buffet. It’s the second time this event has been held; with the first shave happening back in 2007. Show your support!
When: 27 November, 7pm-midnight
Where: Grappa’s Cellar, Jardine House, 1 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets are $450 and available here. It includes a two-hour vegetarian buffet. Half of the proceeds from the ticket sales will be going directly to the End Bear Bile Farming Campaign.
AIA Electric Run
Another one for fitness fanatics, Electric Run is a slightly-less-than-5K run around Central that turns into a swinging party after hours! Grab some LEDs and glow sticks to light up and shine bright as you run the course. There’ll be DJs spinning tunes to get you amped and ready before the run starts and after to celebrate.
When: 28 & 29 November. Registration closes on 20 November.
Where: Central Harbourfront Event Space, 9 Lung Wo Road, Central, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets are $500 for individual runners, with a 10% discount for groups of 4 or more. Register here.
Seussical The Musical
Everyone’s favourite cat in the hat goes from page to stage in the Dr. Seuss’s classic tale. Seussical The Musical takes you on a fantastical and apparently ‘songtastical’ journey through the author’s mind. Join Horton the elephant and the gang for some fun theatre times… let out that inner kid!
When: 28-30 November
Where: Hong Kong Academy of Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
How much: Tickets start from $295 and are available from www.hkticketing.com, 31 288 288.
Travel with Ears
If you’re itching to get out of the office at lunchtime, why not check out Travel with Ears, a live music event at Island East? A different local band is playing from 1-1.45pm each Thursday from this week until the end of November. Acts include The Bollands and Gadjo Station and there’ll be complimentary cupcakes by Sift Patisserie (yum!) at each concert. See you there!
When: Every Thursday from this week until the end of November, 1-1.45pm.
Where: Via Fiori, One Island East, 18 Westlands Road, Quarry Bay, Hong Kong
How much: Free!